Beat the Winter Blues

Shorter winter days also mean less sunlight every day and sunlight helps us feel more awake. Need a extra boost choose your foods wisely.

~ Folic Acid - It helps the body process and lower your homocysteine levels. This is important because high levels of homocysteine can damage your blood vessels. Impaired blood flow may leave you feeling sluggish or slow to process or recall information.

Good sources- leafy vegetables (spinach,broccoli,kale), potatoes,beans,peas,and fortified breads and cereals.
~ Omega-3 fatty acids - People who experience seasonal depression during fall and winter have been found to have lower levels of omega-3s.
Good sources- Salmon, tuna some plant oils (flaxseed,canola) and walnuts.

~ Vitamin D - Lack of sunlight in winter,causes many people to have low levels of vitamin D. Low levels cause fatigue and depression in some people.
Good sources - Low fat milk fortified with vitamin D,some oranges juices
(check labels) and sunlight.

~ Protein - A diet high in protein and lower in carbohydrates may help to improve mood,stimulate energy and chase away feelings of sluggishness.
Good sources - Low fat dairy products like milk, cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt,lean meats,poultry and eggs.

~Rosemary - This herb has shown to increase blood flow to your brain and improve your mood. It may also benefit your immune system, keeping your immune system strong during flu and cold season. So sprinkle a little on your mealsfor flavor.

Just keep in mind that spring is just around the corner, and March 14 the time changes which means more sunlight and warmers days ahead!

~Be Healthy