Feeling a bit down in the dumps during the festive season is not uncommon. The chilly weather, lack of sunlight and reduced social interaction can all contribute to a dip in mood. The scarcity of sunlight can lead to a deficiency in vitamin D and affect the brain's production of serotonin, a chemical that boosts mood.
The cold weather also makes it harder to venture outside and mingle, potentially leading to feelings of isolation. Additionally, a weakened immune system can make you feel constantly under the weather. However, if you're battling the winter blues, Shona Wilkinson, head nutritionist at ethical supplement brand Dr Vegan, suggests incorporating certain foods into your diet.
One such food is Kimchi, a Korean dish made from fermented vegetables like cabbage, onion, radish, ginger and salt. As these veggies ferment, they become rich in probiotics - live bacteria that promote gut health, reports Surrey Live . Research has shown a link between a healthy gut and improved mood, thanks to the 'gut-brain axis'.
A thriving gut is a powerhouse for producing serotonin, often dubbed 'the happy hormone', making it crucial to nourish our digestive system with probiotics. Fermented favourites like kombucha and sauerkraut are top picks for boosting gut health, or you could opt for a supplement such as Dr Vegan's GutWorks, which combines prebiotics and probiotics for the ultimate gut support. Nutrition expert Shona hailed dark leafy greens like spinach and chard as sources of "the m.
