Shedding Some Light on Seasonal Affective Disorder

Our bodies contain an inner clock that helps to regulate hormones and biochemistry. This clock is referred to as the circadian rhythm. The fine timing of this biological rhythm requires signaling from light. With the change in seasons, many of us feel the systemic effects of less daylight in various ways, one of which is altered mood. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that correlates with seasonal patterns. In today’s episode, we discuss the biochemistry of how light regulates the circadian rhythm, the etiologies of seasonal affective disorder, and various treatment strategies which have been used to improve symptoms.   Today on The Lab Report: 2:15 The circadian rhythm and chronobiology – defining terms 5:00 Light signals and hormonal regulation of the biological clock 7:25 Health implications of seasonal change 9:30 Seasonal Affective Disorder 13:45 Vitamin D – What does it do? 18:10 Therapeutics and interventions 21:00 Question of the Day: Can seasonal affective disorder happen in the summer?   Subscribe, Rate, & Review The Lab Report Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button and give us a rating or leave a review. Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most interesting and pressing questions on functional medicine: [email protected]. And, be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing. Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions and views of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.