The leaves aren’t the only thing that changes during fall. Your body undergoes physical changes with the new season as well. Why does this occur? A study published in May 2015 by the Nature Communications journal found that up to 20% of the genes that make up each individual’s DNA changes in expression with the changes in season. Not only is this information interesting but it also provides explanation for phenomena you may have always noticed but never understood. With this knowledge, you can adjust simple daily habits to improve your overall health and outlook.
Changes in blood pressure:
As the temperature decreases, blood pressure increases. This potentially dangerous occurrence is caused by blood vessels tightening as the weather gets colder. The best way to adjust your lifestyle accordingly is by relaxing more, perhaps with yoga or meditation. It is also helpful to change your diet to include more foods such as nuts, produce, and whole grains.
Changes in energy:
The days are shorter, and therefore less sunlight which decrease energy levels making people more tired. A study by the Harvard medical school reported that people sleep an average of 2.7 hours more a night due to this, causing hypersomnia, or sleeping more than necessary. If you suffer from this dreary cycle of drowsiness, you can improve it by taking vitamin D supplements to compensate for your lack of sufficient levels from natural sunlight.
Changes in hydration:
As mentioned above, blood vessels tighten as the weather gets colder, making blood flow throughout the body more strenuous. While this occurs in order to allow the body to conserve more heat to keep warm, it also makes you feel more hydrated than in actuality. Be sure to keep drinking as much water as you would in the summer or any other season, and don’t completely forget about water amongst the temptation of fancy hot drinks.
Changes in mood:
Again with shorter days and less sunlight, the fall can have negative effects on your mood. Vitamin D has a vital role in disposition and sleep patterns, so continue to take your vitamins! Being aware of the fall’s negative effects on mood can help you prepare to do what you can to stay upbeat and positive when the sun just doesn’t have your back like it did in past months.
Conquer these changes and make this fall your best one yet!
Sources:
http://duration-driven.com/get-your-pmo-ready-for-the-fall-swing/
http://www.vaheart.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/High-Blood-Preasure.jpg
http://www.active.com/Assets/Running/460/proper-hydration-460.jpg
http://megakvizovi.com/app/2015/09/koji-si-tip-osobe/thumb.jpg
http://www.nature.com/ncomms/2015/150512/ncomms8000/full/ncomms8000.html
http://www.prevention.com/sex/better-sex/how-fall-season-change-affects-your-health
http://www.shape.com/lifestyle/mind-and-body/your-brain-autumn
http://dripdrop.com/winter-hydration-can-get-dehydrated-cold-weather/