As the sun begins to retreat behind the clouds, marking the coming of winter, it's normal to start feeling a bit sad. Fortunately, there are many effective methods available to battle Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and get back on track to feeling great (stormy weather and all). Boost your health and feel better with these SAD-busting winter blues vitamins!

Winter Blues Vitamins: Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency has long been associated with SAD, and a vitamin D supplement is a simple and cost-effective way to help brush those blues aside. Assisting in offsetting the vast rise and fall of melatonin levels associated with shorter, darker days, vitamin D is often prescribed along with light therapy. Take vitamin D3s in tandem with your usage of a full-spectrum light or light box, and get as much natural light exposure as possible with outdoor walks or exercise (just don't forget the sunscreen).

DHA Fish Oils

Get your omega-3 fatty acids from our full-range line of DHA fish oils, starting with Metagenics OmegaGenics DHA 900. DHA fish oils will help improve cognitive function, making your recall and focus quicker, and effectively alleviate symptoms of depression like low energy and low moods. Bonus: these easy absorption softgels are non-GMO and great for overall brain and eye health, too.

Natural Vitamin Sources

If you find yourself craving carbs during the colder months, beware. This behaviour may result in a worsening of your SAD symptoms due to the void of vitamins in such foods. Our best advice: turn to your diet to get your fill of natural SAD-combating vitamins. For example: eat plenty of berries to help manage the stress hormone cortisol; chow down on fish for those omega-3s; munch on leafy greens for folic acid; and bite a banana for magnesium to help improve sleep. Finally, to ensure you're set to feel SAD no longer, drink plenty of water, get lots of exercise and spend cosy, quality time with friends and family who make you laugh.