Have you noticed the days have been getting darker around you? Since September 1st we have seen 2.5 hours less daylight. From now though the end of the year we will see almost 2 hours more darkness each day. Although we are going to get an extra hour of sleep on the first Sunday of November for Daylight Savings, the long winter months filled with shorter and colder days are on the horizon. It is not uncommon for many people to feel down while adjusting to daylight savings and spending more time in darkness. Waking up before the sun rises and coming back from work after sundown can cast a shadow on your mood and affect your activity levels needed to maintain long-term health and well-being.

What is SAD?

There is a medical term for this condition called SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder. According to American Family Physician, this legit melancholy is estimated to affect more than 20% of Americans every year. Everybody can be down at times, but SAD is more than just feeling a little heavy-hearted; it is classified as a type of depression brought on by the change in seasons.

The onset of SAD typically begins in the fall and continues throughout the winter until days lengthen and sunny days sweep the clouds away in the Spring. According to Medical News Today, studies have shown that the time shift may affect circadian rhythms, brain neurotransmitters, and hormone balances. Some common symptoms of this disorder include lethargy, anxiety, depression, and a loss of interest in activities that normally light your fire.

 SAD & Vitamin D

Studies have shown that there is a correlation between SAD and vitamin D which makes sense. Therefore, it is not unusual for an upswing in SAD sacks when everyone is running low on vitamin D during the winter months. A research team at the University of Georgia published a study on the link between low vitamin D levels to SAD and hypothesized that there is a logical connection between the two.

Add Vitamin D to your Routine

Supplementing with vitamin D can be a great way to fight the lows of SAD. The Institute of Medicine states that the daily recommended dose of vitamin D is at least 600 international units, but a safe dose of up to 4,000 IUs may be prescribed as a way to combat these extreme blahs.

Even with a higher dose, there is little risk of taking too much of the supplement. Aside from taking vitamin D to fight SAD and enhance your mood, it also helps your body generate strong bones, teeth, and hair.

At SFH, we have combined Vitamin D3 with Omega-3 Fish Oil to get all the benefits in one easy pump! Vitamin D is fat-soluble, so the body can absorb it more efficiently when combined with dietary fat like omega-3. We have three delicious flavors: orange, lemon, and peppermint, it's easy to take and a great tool to add to your arsenal to help you fight off SAD. Plus, when you sign up for subscription orders, you can save 10% and never worry about running out of this liquid gold.