LIGHTEN UP

The doom mongers still can’t decide which day next week is going to be the most depressing- but joking aside, it’s always difficult at this time of year for thousands of us who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). 

If you do suffer from the winter grumps, and an uncontrollable desire to hibernate until at least April, all is not lost. Natural health experts have plenty of tips for getting those of us with burrowing inclinations out of bed with a smile on our faces again.

Lack of light due to short winter days is a major factor in SAD, because it
affects the body's production of serotonin, a natural chemical made by the
body which helps to regulate and lift our mood. 

Luckily, there is a way to counteract this with a food supplement, known as 5-HTP (an extract from the seeds of the griffonia plant) which is a natural way to boost serotonin levels and mood,

Supplements aren’t the only way to put a spring back into your step when spring is just too far away though. If you can, and the weather isn’t appalling, spend as much time as possible outside in natural daylight or in naturally bright rooms. Personally, I can’t bear being stuck in horrible strip light filled rooms - and I find artificial lighting aggravates my migraines and makes me irritable. Bagging the window seat at work might also help, especially on those lovely winter days when the sun is out and it’s crisp and cold. Next time the sun is out, just tell your boss that it's imperative you have the seat by the window for health reasons. Unless your boss also suffers SAD, that should guarantee the best seat in the house for a bit...

Fill your boots with as many colourful fruits and vegetables as possible, to make sure that you’re well fortified with vitamins. Sinking into a diet of winter stodge is tempting when it’s blowing a gale and the rain’s teeming down…but your body will thank you for some fresh foods.

Take regular gentle exercise - this also boosts feel-good chemicals known
as endorphins in the body

Doctors working with the nutrition company Healthspan have developed a
supplement called ‘Happy Days’ – which contains pure, natural 5-HTP (griffonia seed extract) together with Vitamin C, zinc and B vitamins which help to convert 5-HTP into serotonin to help tackle SAD

Healthspan is offering Happy Days at a special low price for the winter
months at £4.45 for sixty tablets.  Call the Happiness Hotline free on 0800
73 123 77  or order online: