02/12/2022
S.A.D. and your DNA
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Seasonal affective disorder, sometimes known as seasonal depression, affects millions of Americans each year.
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What are the signs and symptoms of SAD?
* Feeling depressed or less than optimal mood
* Trouble sleeping
* Changes weight
* Oversleeping (hypersomnia) and other behavioral changes
* Overeating, particularly with a craving for carbohydrates
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WHY?
In most cases, SAD symptoms start in the late fall or early winter and subside during the spring and summer.
SAD may be caused by a decreased amount of sunlight in the fall and winter and is often linked to low vitamin D levels.
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WHAT TO DO?
✔️Adjusting your sleep cycle to improve circadian rhythm can be helpful.
✔️Getting outside in the morning hours, if weather permits.
✔️Checking Vitamin D levels regularly
✔️Supplementing with vitamin D3+K2 if necessary.
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Your genomic report can help you determine the appropriate dosage for your supplements- especially Vitamin D!
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For years, my doctors struggled to figure out why my vitamin D levels were chronically low even though I live in Texas, spent time outside, and supplemented with a moderate dose of 2,000 IU daily. When we saw my genetics it finally made sense!
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I have 2 homozygous copies (++), or variants, on 2of my vitamin D receptor genes meaning I may not be able to transport vitamin D very well from sunlight and need to supplement. It took over 10,000 IU daily to keep my levels in optimum ranges- a dose many doctors wouldn’t have recommended without seeing the root cause.
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Most experts agree getting levels to the 60ng/ml-90ng/ml is essential for optimal health. This is much more than the typical RDA of 30ng/ml.
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If you notice a change in your mood during the winter months, start by asking your doctor to check your vitamin D levels.
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If you would like to access all of the blood work I recommend to clients there is a link in my bio.