#225 Seasonal Affective Disorder with Dr Rupy Aujla
Dec 6, 2023
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Dr Rupy Aujla, medical doctor and author, discusses Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or winter depression. He explores the proposed causes, evidence-based interventions, and effective tips for managing SAD, including the importance of natural light exposure, the role of vitamin D, and treatment options. He also emphasizes the significance of taking a combination of vitamin D3 and K2 for optimal health and offers advice on changing daily routines and improving nutrition to support mental health.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a mood disorder with a seasonal pattern, distinct from depression, caused by reduced sunlight exposure during winter months.
Disruptions in hormones like melatonin and serotonin, as well as vitamin D deficiency, are believed to contribute to the development of SAD.
Deep dives
Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a biological and mood disorder with a seasonal pattern, mostly occurring during winter months due to reduced sunlight. It shares similarities with depression, but the seasonal pattern distinguishes it. The diagnosis relies on identifying patterns of symptoms and their seasonality. SAD affects a significant number of people, with about 2 million in the UK and three to eight per hundred in the EU. Common symptoms include increased sleep, overeating, low motivation, and lack of enjoyment. Women are three times more likely to experience SAD, especially during childbearing years.
Potential Causes and Impact on Hormones
The exact causes of SAD are unknown, but disruptions in hormones like melatonin and serotonin are believed to be involved. Melatonin, mainly associated with sleep regulation, has other important roles, including immune function, antioxidant activity, and energy metabolism. Disruption in melatonin levels due to reduced sunlight exposure can impact mood and energy levels. Serotonin, often called the 'happy hormone,' is also connected to SAD, and vitamin D deficiency from reduced sunlight exposure is another potential cause. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including mood regulation and immune system function.
Treatment Options and Recommendations
Treating SAD involves a combination of approaches. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be effective in addressing negative thoughts and improving motivation. Morning light exposure, preferably outdoors, is recommended to inhibit melatonin production and boost energy. Artificial SAD lamps can be used when natural light exposure is limited. Vitamin D supplementation, preferably with vitamin K2, is commonly advised due to its deficiency during winter. While diet improvements alone may not directly impact SAD symptoms, supplements like B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids could be explored. Establishing healthy habits through habit stacking can also be beneficial. Starting new habits may be more effective after the winter months to tackle the lack of motivation and mood associated with SAD.
Today I’m talking about SAD, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder because I was recently asked to explain it on BBC morning TV. It’s surprisingly common and debilitating for millions of people in the UK alone, and frustratingly there is not too much known about the cause and a real lack of research.
SAD is also referred to as Winter Depression and may have similarities to depression in the way of symptoms, but it’s hard to determine whether there are similarities in the mechanism that drives the symptoms themselves.
Today I’ll talk about the proposed causes, evidence for diet and lifestyle interventions and what you can do today to help yourselves.
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