However, in 2020, an article in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition discovered a slew of heart-health benefits associated with apple eating. Consuming one medium apple daily, the authors concluded, may help reduce blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation. Apples, both peeled and unpeeled, are a wonderful source of fiber and substances called polyphenols that promote heart health.
However, as is the case with many fruits, it is recommended to consume the fruit whole (with fiber-rich seeds) rather than drinking juice. Pomegranate arils contain only 72 calories in a half-cup.
While coffee can provide a much-needed mental boost, new research says that you should limit yourself to five or six cups per day; beyond that amount may be detrimental to your brain. The researchers studied over 400,000 adults who consumed coffee on a daily basis (either caffeinated or decaffeinated). Daily consumption was classified into six categories ranging from one to two cups to more than six cups. Around 18,000 individuals had their brain volume evaluated using MRI. The research discovered that, when compared to moderate coffee drinkers (one to two daily cups), heavy coffee drinkers (more than six daily cups) had lower overall brain volume, particularly in the hippocampus, the region responsible for short- and long-term memory.
Additionally, heavy drinkers had a 53% increased probability of being diagnosed with dementia compared to light drinkers. The risk was similar whether individuals consumed caffeinated or decaffeinated coffee.
The big question is, do you really have to yell?
You yell.
Now and then, concert-level volume is appropriate, such as when announcing "There's a bear behind you" or "Power line down." But the main question is: how frequently do those scenarios arise? Rarely, is the answer.
What is Seasonal Depression and How Does It Affect You?
Seasonal depression is most common in areas of the world where individuals are exposed to little sunlight for long periods of time. During the winter months, affected people report a notable drop in mood, as well as trouble completing work, a loss of interest in regular activities, and changes in sleep patterns. You can get through the winter with good self-care and a complete strategy with your healthcare professional.
Winter can be a relatively challenging season for some people, while it can be quite difficult for others. If you're having serious problems, seek help from a mental health professional or call your local suicide prevention hotline.
Creating a Foundation for Good Self-Care
Depression exists, whether it is seasonal or not. Establishing solid social support systems, eating a balanced nutritious diet, getting enough sleep, and exercising should all be part of any plan for controlling depression. However, these things aren't always enough, and you'll require more assistance.
Always start with your primary care physician and a mental health specialist to develop a thorough strategy that is tailored to your specific requirements. Here are some extra resources to think about.
Seasonal Depression: 11 Natural Approaches
1. Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep.
Melatonin is a well-known supplement for supporting sleep. Some persons are more susceptible to the effects of melatonin or have aberrant melatonin output during the winter months, which may make seasonal mood difficulties more challenging for them. There is some preliminary evidence that consuming melatonin before bedtime can help with seasonal depression symptoms.
Melatonin is generally harmless, and getting enough sleep is critical for overall health. If your sleep problems don't go away, see a doctor. Melatonin is only available via prescription in some parts of the world, although it is available as a supplement in others.
2. Phototherapy, or happy light
During the winter, you can buy a customized lightbox to sit in front of in the morning to replicate natural sunlight. This has been reported to be beneficial in conjunction with melatonin and other medications in several trials. Certain mental health disorders may be exacerbated by phototherapy; if you have any concerns, speak with your doctor about using one.
3. Vitamin D
Many people refer to vitamin D as the "sunshine vitamin" because it is produced in our bodies when we are exposed to sunlight. When the number of daylight hours is limited, deficiency is more likely, which can contribute to depression. Vitamin D supplementation, in combination with other therapy, has been shown to help treat seasonal depression in studies. It's impossible to know if you're lacking in vitamin D without a blood test, so talk to your doctor about getting one. Dosing is still important, as too much can have negative effects. Consult your physician to determine the proper dosage for you.