Summer, the season of warmth, longer days, and abundant sunshine, has a profound impact on our mood and overall well-being. As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, our bodies and minds react to these seasonal changes, both positively and negatively. In this article, we'll be delving into how summer affects our mood, highlighting its potential to bring joy while also disrupting our appetite, metabolism, and body rhythms.
The Sunshine Factor:
One of the most significant influences of summer on our mood is the abundance of sunshine. Sunlight plays a crucial role in regulating our mood and energy levels. Increased exposure to sunlight stimulates the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for promoting feelings of happiness and well-being. Moreover, being outdoors in nature and enjoying recreational activities can reduce stress, improve sleep, and enhance overall mental well-being. Longer days also provide more opportunities for outdoor activities and social interactions, leading to increased exposure to nature, fresh air, and vitamin D. Consequently, many individuals experience an uplifted mood and increased positivity during the summer months.
The Summer Conundrum:
Summer's effect on our metabolism can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, the higher temperatures and increased humidity can reduce our desire to eat, leading to decreased appetite. Additionally, the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables during summer can provide a healthy alternative for snacking, aiding in weight management. Increased physical activity during this season, such as swimming and hiking, can contribute to increased calorie expenditure, again, aiding in weight management. However, the flip side of this equation lies in the temptation of indulging in calorie-rich foods and beverages that are synonymous with summer, such as ice cream, barbecues, and sugary drinks. Overconsumption of these treats can offset the benefits of increased activity and lead to weight gain. It is crucial to maintain a balanced diet during summer by incorporating light, refreshing meals that provide essential nutrients while keeping us adequately hydrated.
Risks Associated with Summer Mood Disruptions
While summer typically brings cheerfulness, it's essential to be aware of the potential mood disruptions that can come with it. The heat and humidity of summer can result in dehydration, fatigue, and heatstroke if proper precautions are not taken. It's vital to stay hydrated, seek shade during the hottest parts of the day, and use appropriate sun protection measures to mitigate these risks.
Embracing the Positive Effects of Longer, Brighter Days
Our body's internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm, is influenced by the amount of daylight we experience. During the summer, when the days are longer and brighter, our circadian rhythm adjusts accordingly. This adjustment can result in improved sleep patterns and increased alertness during the day. However, disruptions in our sleep routine, such as late sunsets or early sunrises, can lead to difficulty falling asleep and feeling groggy in the morning. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing sleep environment can help mitigate these issues.
How to support our mood during Summer!
Doctor Seaweed's supplements are a great way of supporting our body and mind, particularly through the summer months. With all the changes to our appetite and metabolism, it may be difficult to maintain a consistent diet and sometimes we may lack essential nutrients, such as iodine. Iodine is important for making thyroid hormones which regulates a host of bodily functions from weight management and energy levels to skin health and brain function. As our bodies don't make this critical nutrient, it's essential that we get enough in our diet or we supplement. The primary dietary sources include white fish and dairy but with the rise of plant-based diets, many of us remain deficient. Do you experience symptoms such as dry skin, weight gain, low energy and brittle nails? If some of these sound familiar, click here to take our 20 second test to find out if you are iodine deficient.
To make this essential nutrient accessible to all, Dr Craig Rose PhD aka Doctor Seaweed, has developed a range of nutritional seaweed supplements from entirely natural and plant-based ingredients. Focus+ is the perfect supplement to support our brain health, vision and energy levels. Sustainably harvested Scottish seaweed is paired with a plethora of plant-based zinc, selenium, a vitamin B complex and Omega-3 DHA. Focus+ is a great addition to your diet, helping support your mood through the summer months. Click here to shop Focus+