|
At this time of year, seasonal affective disorder (SAD)—a type of depression with a recurring seasonal pattern—is a problem for some people. Here’s what research shows about natural products and SAD:
- Low levels of vitamin D, caused by low dietary intake of the vitamin or not enough exposure to sunshine, have been found in people with SAD. However, it’s unclear whether vitamin D supplementation can help to relieve SAD symptoms.
- Very little research has been done on natural products other than vitamin D for SAD. A few studies involving very small numbers of people have looked at melatonin and St. John’s wort for treatment of SAD, with unclear or inconsistent results. Single small studies of vitamin B12 and Ginkgo biloba did not find these supplements beneficial.
Other types of treatment for SAD have shown more promise, including a type of cognitive behavioral therapy specifically adapted for people with SAD, antidepressant medications, and light therapy.
Light therapy for SAD involves daily morning exposure to bright artificial light, usually from early fall until spring. The idea is to replace the diminished sunlight of the fall and winter months. In several studies, light therapy has been as helpful for SAD symptoms as medication or cognitive behavioral therapy.
|
