B’s Are Mood Boosters
Some of us get moodier in the winter and there are a number of possible factors. Increased sugar intake, shorter days, less sunlight leading to lower levels of vitamin D and the stress of the holidays. The evidence is mounting that B vitamins are great mood boosters, so you might want to increase your intake during the winter months. It’s just one factor, but it may be the key for you. Check out this article about a Finnish study that clearly showed that those with mild depression who had good blood levels of B12 showed greater improvement than those with low levels.
Good food sources include:
- beef
- fish
- chicken
- tuna
- oysters
- cheese
- nutritional yeast
Folate and B6 are also particularly, important so if you suspect your intake is low or you suspect poor absorption, I suggest taking a B-complex with 400 mcg folate and 20mg B6. Also, the B12 included in the vitamin should be methylcobalamin, the active form of B12.
To Your Best Health!
Cassandra Mick, CNE
Read more about Cassandra’s approach to nutrition or schedule a complimentary Nutriton Strategy Session at www.eatwellpdx.com
