KEEP THE BLUES AWAY

4 Keys to Keeping the Blues Away

BY MARY ANN O’DELL, MS, RDN

APRIL SHOWERS BRING…THE BLUES? It’s something everyone deals with at some point, and many people experience mild depression, or “the blues,” during seasonal changes, and especially during gray rainy days. Depression and stress can increase digestive troubles, sleeping problems, and other health issues. Many factors that contribute to mild depression can be controlled and changed to help reduce the chance of experiencing depression. Here are 4 keys to help fight the blues.

MOVEMENT HELPS MOOD. Exercise raises endorphin levels (the feel-good hormones), which are commonly found to be low in depression. Exercise is associated with decreased anxiety and depression, and increased self-esteem and happiness. Something as simple as even a short, brisk walk can make you feel better.

REST ENHANCES REJUVENATION. Lack of sleep means less time for your body to recuperate from the previous day’s activities. The result can be irritability, moodiness, and even adrenal exhaustion. Be sure to cut back on caffeine, especially later in the day, to avoid sleep problems associated with overstimulation. Try doing deep breathing exercises in the evening to calm body and mind. Utilize aromatherapy to help enhance sleep.

CONTROLLING STRESS CALMS NERVES. Adaptogens, such as eleuthero and ashwagandha, can help by balancing the body’s response to physical and emotional stress, promoting an increase in physical and emotional endurance. Research also suggests that deficiencies of vitamin B 12 and folic acid may be related to the development of depression, and since the B vitamins are used up faster during stressful situations, they should be replenished on a daily basis.

HAPPINESS TAKES GUTS. Since scientists have discovered the “second brain”—neurons in the intestinal tract that communicate like neurons in the brain—there has been more focus on the gut-brain connection. Inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract can play a role in developing depression and “brain fog.” Controlling inflammation and supplementing with probiotics may result in more GI balance and improvement in brain function and symptoms of mild depression.

Michael’s Ashwagandha Complex

Adrenal support.* With adaptogenic herbs ashwagandha & rhodiola.* High-potency, concentrated support.

Jarrow Jarro-Dophilus Mood

Gut-brain probiotic.* Digestive probiotics + GABA to support the gut-brain axis.* With four clinically documented probiotic strains.