Are you feeling sad, demotivated or exhausted? You’re not alone! As we just had Blue Monday last week (January 16th), many of us may feel more frustrated, tired or sad than usual.

We may feel this way for many reasons, including the cold, dark weather affecting our general mood and well-being. With the festivities now over, statistics show that about two-thirds of people abandon their New Year’s resolutions within a month. Many of us may also be struggling with finances and the rising costs of bills. 

Getting the proper nutrients is essential to boosting your mood and helping you to feel good.

Let’s look at five of our favourite natural supplements that can help you relax, boost your mood and generally support you to feel good whenever you’re feeling low…

 

1. Vitamin D3

Often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin”, Vitamin D3 is essential for regulating the body’s hormones.

Research suggests that it can also improve mental health and reduce symptoms of depression or anxiety. [1] If you live in an area with less sunlight or don’t get out much, taking a supplement can help ensure your body gets enough of it.

 

2. SAM-e

SAM-e stands for S-adenosyl methionine, an amino acid naturally produced by our bodies. It helps produce serotonin and dopamine, chemicals that regulate our moods. [2]

Taking a supplement may be beneficial if your levels of these chemicals are low due to stress or other factors like a poor diet or lack of sleep.

 

3. L-Tryptophan

 L-tryptophan is an essential amino acid in protein-rich foods such as meat, eggs, nuts, and legumes. It helps produce serotonin, improving your mood and making you feel calmer.

It has also been shown to reduce insomnia by helping people fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. If you have trouble sleeping, adding more tryptophan-rich foods to your diet may be helpful. [3]

 

4. L-Theanine

L-theanine is an amino acid found primarily in tea leaves that helps relax the nervous system by increasing alpha brain waves associated with relaxation.

Studies suggest it can help reduce stress and anxiety while improving mental clarity and focus. [4] Adding some green tea into your daily routine or taking a supplement with L-Theanine may be helpful for those who need a bit of extra calming effect during their day.

 

 5. Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone released from the pineal gland in response to darkness which helps regulate our sleep cycles.

Applying Melatonin topically with a Magnesium lotion supplement onto the skin for example, can help you to relax, especially before bedtime. It’s ideal if you suffer from insomnia or even jet lag. This nutrient will help reset your internal clock so you can sleep soundly again.

 

Nutrients As Part of a Healthy Routine

These five nutrients – Vitamin D3, SAM-e, L-Tryptophan, L-Theanine, and Melatonin – all have powerful effects on our bodies, allowing us to relax and feel better both physically and mentally.

Eating more nutrient-rich foods (you can find plenty of recipes we recommend at www.reallyhealthyfoods.com) while incorporating these supplements into your daily routine is recommended for best results.

When taken together, as in the recommended examples below – these nutrients can significantly benefit those seeking relief from stress, anxiety or insomnia-related issues.

 

 

References:

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6515787/

[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7487540/

[3] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/0022395682900127

[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6836118/

[5]  https://www.researchgate.net/publication/262185015_Melatonin_and_mental_illness

Recommended Examples from our sponsor, good health naturally

Vitamin D3/K2 Sublingual Spray™

Vitamin D3/K2 Sublingual Spray™ – Provides 1000IU Vitamin D3 and 100mcg of Vitamin K2 MK7 per serving. Take five sprays per day, orally or sprayed onto food, or as directed by your healthcare professional. Best taken with food. 

It supports normal immune system response and may benefit bone health. Provides better calcium and phosphorus absorption in the blood and bones. Vegan and vegetarian-friendly Vitamin D3. Available from Good Health Naturally. 

SAM-e Plus+™

SAM-e Plus+™ – S-adenosyl-l-methionine is significant in supporting stress relief and optimal mood balancing, amongst other benefits. 60 capsules. Available from Good Health Naturally.

 

Relaxwell®

Relaxwell® A unique formula of L-Tryptophan, L-Theanine, Vitamin B3 and B6 to support stress relief and relaxation. Suitable for vegetarians and vegans. 90 capsules. Available from Good Health Naturally.

Ancient Magnesium Lotion Ultra with Melatonin

Ancient Magnesium Lotion Ultra with Melatonin – Ultra-pure Zechstein Magnesium Lotion with Melatonin for enhanced relaxation and improved sleep. Provides topical Magnesium for maximum absorption through the skin. Available from Good Health Naturally.