While Vitamin D levels can have an impact on many different parts of your body, the mind is one area that can really suffer. Studies have found a link between having low Vitamin D and suffering from depression. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that most commonly occurs during the winter. While there are many different factors that can cause someone to suffer from SAD, scientists how found that Vitamin D may play a big part.
For many parts of the world, the winter is a time with little sunlight and treacherous weather that causes you to stay indoors everyday. After being trapped inside for days at a time, it can really make a difference with your mental health. When being exposed to the sun, our body reacts in many different ways – not only do we absorb the UV rays through our skin, but the brightness of the sun also has an impact on our brains. Similar to sitting in front of a Bright Light Therapy Box, the brightness of the sun causes the brain to produce serotonin; a chemical that helps give you energy and boosts mood. Along with the Vitamin D that is created from UVB absorption, serotonin can be a great help when dealing with seasonal depression.
It is well known that when we have higher levels of Vitamin D, we tend to have more energy. For someone that is suffering with depression, energy does not come easily. If you are ever feeling down or think you may be battling SAD, make sure to speak with your doctor and get your Vitamin D levels checked.
