Serotonin and SAD


Here is an interesting little study about serotonin and seasonal affective disorder.

Investigators in Sweden compared 11 patients diagnosed with SAD. They measured serotonin binding and changes in depression as a result of being exposed to light.

The persons who were the most depressed tended to respond most profoundly to the light exposure. Their serotonin levels normalized in response to the light.

So, not only should we be eating that potato, but also we should be getting outside into the sunlight. And if you don't have sunlight, get a light box.

Do we feel better in spring or what!

* Stain-Malmgren et al, Platelet serotonergic functions and light therapy in seasonal affective disorder. Psychiatry Res., 1998 May 8:78(3):163-172

(c)Kathleen DesMaisons 2006. All rights reserved.