Health expert names the nine foods that could help ease same condition as Monty Don
A health expert has named nine foods that could help you combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
The condition, which can also be known as winter depression, sees symptoms such as low mood, a lack of energy, and struggles getting up in the morning. Famed gardener Monty Don has recently opened up about his battles with SAD.
The 69-year-old said his wife Sarah threatened to leave him if he didn’t seek help for the condition. It prompted him to make changes in his life, seeking help from a doctor who gave him antidepressants and getting a light box to help the transition between seasons.
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Those with seasonal affective disorder can often find themselves gaining weight and finding an increased craving for junk food. But an expert has now named a host of foods that can help you lead a happier winter.
Nutritional therapist Deborah Grayson says eggs are one of the best foods for people with SAD. Speaking to The I, she said: “Eggs provide several benefits for seasonal depression. As well as supporting blood-sugar balance, they also contain tryptophan, B6, and B12, which are all needed to produce serotonin - one of the neurotransmitters that help support mood.”
Deborah says simple snacks can also help battle the impact of SAD, with walnuts, almonds and pumpkin seeds all good options instead of junk food. While oily-fish such as salmon in your diet can also be beneficial for low moods.
She added: “The exact reason for this is unclear, but it is suggested that their benefits for reducing inflammation in the brain may be helpful in depression. Salmon also contains vitamin B6 and B12 to support serotonin production.”
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Deborah named the spice saffron and green tea as other options for people with SAD. While eating broccoli and chocolate are also options.
For any chocolate lovers, the expert recommends a “few pieces” of dark chocolate - at least 85 percent cocoa. This, experts believe, can also help improve your gut microbiome.
Last year Monty revealed he struggles through November and December. Speaking on Kate Thornton's White Wine Question Time podcast, last year, he said: "I was long ago diagnosed with SAD – there's no question about it, that November and December are always the worst time for me – I can't bear them
“It's a lot to do with the greyness, the lack of light and the general sense of the world just pressing in on you and no energy."
Recalling his wife's reaction when his moods were at all-time low, he added: "Sarah said to me, 'Look, I just can't take any longer your moods and your black depression, you've got to do something about it because if you don't, I can't live with you – I'll take the children and I'll go'."