Episode 476: Seasonal Affective Disorder and 3 Key Nutrients for Mood and Immune Health

Do you notice your mood dip, energy crash, or motivation fade as the days get shorter? Do winter colds seem harder to shake? Tune in as we unpack Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and why seasonal changes can have a very real impact on both mental health and immune resilience. In this episode, we highlight key nutrients that support mood, stress response, and immune function, especially during fall and winter. We walk through the physiology behind seasonal mood changes—light exposure, neurotransmitters, inflammation, and circadian rhythm—and share practical food-as-medicine and supplement strategies you can actually implement. If winter tends to leave you feeling flat, foggy, or run-down, this episode offers science-backed support to help you feel more grounded and resilient through the season. Also in this episode:  Naturally Nourished Academy starts 2/4 - only 2 spots left!  Episode 472 Good, Better, Best with Brenda Bennett What is Seasonal Affective Disorder? Who is most affected by SAD? Symptoms of SAD How Vitamin D status impacts SAD Vitamin D Blood Spot Test  Vitamin D Balanced Blend Vitamin D Balanced Blend Liquid Gloth et al., 1999, Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging Anglin et al., 2013, British Journal of Psychiatry (Meta-analysis) Force of Nature Ancestral Blends use code ALIMILLERRD Red Light Therapy LumeBox use code BECKIYOO The connection between SAD, mood and metabolism Adrenal Support Adaptogen Boost How Magnesium supports Vitamin D Status Super Greens Cube Relax and Regulate NAC, mood and immune Cellular Antiox NanoSilver Spray Vitamin C Episode 255 Vitamin C, Immune Health and Beyond Episode 262 The Keto-Immune Connection and Natural Immunity Updates Keto Reset Program Routines to support SAD Sunlighten Sauna use code ALIMILLERRD Healthyline PEMF MAT use code BECKIYOO10fs Vibrant Blue Oils   Sponsors for this episode:  This episode is sponsored by FOND Bone Broth, your sous chef in a jar. FOND’s bone broths and tallows are produced in small batches with premium ingredients from verified regenerative ranches. Their ingredients are synergistically paired for maximum absorption, nutritional benefit, and flavor. Use code NATURALLY to save at fondbonebroth.com and check out their new demi glace and duck fat!