Photographed by Janelle Jones.A change of season inevitably means a change in weather (well, maybe not this week) and your wardrobe — but what about your body? With autumn just around the corner, days will get shorter, nights will get cooler, and your circadian rhythms will be doing their darndest to adjust. But, winter hibernation doesn’t have to be inevitable.
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As the hours of sunlight decline, Shape suggests taking vitamin D supplements to maintain your body's levels of this important nutrient; it improves bone health, which in turn can help prevent certain cancers. Also, according to a PLoS One study, seasonal changes could throw off your mood. Luckily, regular exercise can offset this, so don’t give up your workout routine just because it's getting darker earlier.
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Another strategy to help combat negative season-change moods (also known as seasonal affective disorder), is to consume some — some, mind you — carbs. A Biological Psychiatry study showed that a high-carb meal can amp up your mood. This is possibly because carbs raise your level of insulin, which can help the brain convert tryptophan into that feel-good neurotransmitter, serotonin. This doesn’t mean you should overdose on dinner rolls (carbs have their dark side, too), but incorporating some whole grains into your diet could provide a boost when you’re in a slump.
Click through to see all of Shape's tips for making your transition to fall flawless. (Shape)