Thanksgiving, commonly thought of as the beginning of the joyous Holiday Season, also marks the beginning of increased carbohydrate cravings; of increased appetites; of gaining weight; of broken New Year’s resolutions; and of depression and irritability. This is the beginning of the season of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

While Seasonal Affective Disorder mildly impacts twenty-five percent of the population, it seriously impacts five percent of the population. SAD is a form of natural depression, which normally starts in September but peaks in January and February. Most people that are affected by SAD ignore the symptoms and live through the same SAD cycle year after year.

Melinda Beck of The Wall Street Journal recently wrote a great review article on simple and safe treatments which may help ward off the winter blues. These treatments include such natural treatments as Light Therapy, outdoor exercise, and Vitamin D supplementation. I personally recommend supplementation with Vitamin D because of the low cost and other additional benefits Vitamin D provides. Before proceeding with supplementation, however, I recommend getting a baseline level through laboratory testing and having a qualified clinician follow your levels.

This year, don’t just tough out the seasonal “Winter Blues.” Be proactive, and beat those blues away! Let us know how you are doing this winter by sharing your comments below.