With the arrival of shorter days and longer nights, many people experience a noticeable drop in their mood and energy levels. These seasonal shifts can trigger a type of depression known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which affects 1 in 20 people in the UK.
While traditional treatments often involve light therapy and medication, emerging research points to a promising solution that targets cellular health—NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide). This coenzyme is crucial to many biological functions, including mood regulation, and research suggests that it can combat the symptoms of SAD.
In this blog, we’ll explore what SAD is, how NAD+ plays a role in mental and cellular health, and how NADclinic’s specialised treatments may offer relief during the winter months.
Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a form of depression linked to seasonal changes, particularly during autumn and winter. As sunlight decreases, the brain’s levels of serotonin, a mood-regulating neurotransmitter, can dip, leading to a variety of symptoms such as:
- Persistent fatigue and low energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feelings of hopelessness or sadness
- Changes in sleep patterns and appetite
Common treatments include cognitive behavioural therapy and antidepressants, which work to rewire negative thinking patterns and regulate serotonin levels respectively. Another course of treatment is light therapy, in which a person sits in front of a light box within the first hour of the day. This mimics natural light, increasing serotonin levels and decreasing melatonin production to boost mood and energy levels.
SAD is far more than just the “winter blues”— it can severely impact daily functioning and mental well-being for many. It is therefore crucial that we take steps to mitigate the onset of SAD whenever we can.
NAD+ and its Role in the Body
NAD+ is a coenzyme found in every cell of the body and plays a key role in converting nutrients like glucose into energy. It is involved in a wide range of biological processes, most notably mitochondrial function, DNA repair and cellular energy production.
When it comes to our mental wellbeing, NAD+ plays an important role in neurotransmitter regulation, cognitive function, circadian rhythms and emotional balance. When NAD+ levels are optimal, cells—including those in the brain—function better, leading to improved mood and mental clarity.
As we age, NAD+ levels naturally decline, contributing to fatigue, reduced cognitive function and an overall decline in cellular efficiency. These effects may compound with seasonal challenges like SAD, so it’s important to maintain sufficient levels of NAD+ throughout our lives.
How NAD+ Could Help Manage SAD Symptoms
- Energy & Fatigue: One of the most common symptoms of SAD is low energy. NAD+ boosts mitochondrial efficiency, helping cells produce more energy, which can combat winter fatigue.
- Mood Regulation: Low serotonin is a key contributor to SAD. NAD+ enhances the function of mood-regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, potentially lifting mood and alleviating feelings of sadness and anxiety.
- Cognitive Function: SAD often causes mental fog and trouble concentrating. NAD+ supports brain health by improving synaptic plasticity by activating enzymes called sirtuins. It also helps to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, which can help clear mental fog and enhance focus.
- Sleep and Circadian Rhythms: Proper circadian rhythm regulation is crucial for our mental health, as poor sleep quality can negatively impact all of the above symptoms. NAD+ influences these rhythms, helping regulate sleep patterns which are often disrupted in SAD.
NADclinic’s SAD Solutions
NADclinic offers a variety of ways to boost NAD+ levels, which can aid those struggling with low energy and mood during the colder, darker months. These include:
IV NAD+ Therapy
Delivered directly into the bloodstream, NADclinic’s IV infusions provide rapid and efficient restoration of depleted NAD+ levels. This can help restore mental clarity, balance mood and increase energy—perfect for combatting the symptoms of SAD.
Why not try our Anti Fatigue IV Infusion? It will provide your body with the boost it needs to effectively produce energy, fighting fatigue and improving cognitive function and sleep quality.
Tailored Therapies
NADclinic offers Bespoke IV Infusions designed to address individual health needs, including those experiencing SAD. Patients will undergo a consultation with a doctor to gain an understanding of their individual needs. From there, we will assist you in choosing the right solutions and carry out diagnostic tests, putting together a tailored IV programme to tackle the symptoms of SAD.
Daily NAD+ Support
For ongoing cellular support, Enhanced Optima Max capsules offer a quick and convenient way to maintain NAD+ levels. Simply take one capsule daily for a potent 250mg dose of NAD+, providing a boost of vitality to combat the debilitating effects of SAD.
Conclusion
Seasonal Affective Disorder can significantly affect mental health, but addressing it at the cellular level offers a fresh and promising approach. By boosting NAD+ levels, you can improve mood, energy and overall brain health during the challenging winter months, providing a fantastic defence against the onset of mental illness.
To learn more about how NADclinic’s tailored NAD+ therapies can support your mood and well-being this winter, contact our friendly team today and take the first step towards prioritising your mental health. Remember, you’re not alone and help is always available.