Natural Health: My mum is healthy but her mood has dipped 

Researchers have found that the hormones and brain chemicals which control mood and sleeping patterns are linked to seasonal affective disorder.

The most common reason many people feel lower in mood than usual is spending more time indoors due to the cold, which limits daylight exposure. Picture: iStock

My mum is 80 and was very independent until recently. I’ve noticed her mood has dipped and she’s quieter than usual. It could be weather-related as she is spending more time indoors due to the cold. Her doctor recently gave her a clean bill of health, which was reassuring.

The most common reason many people feel lower in mood than usual is spending more time indoors due to the cold, which limits daylight exposure. When the colder season and shorter days are upon us, it can trigger SAD (seasonal affective disorder). SAD is thought to affect up to a quarter of the adult population, with the main symptom being depression and low mood.

Researchers have found that the hormones and brain chemicals which control mood and sleeping patterns are linked to SAD.

Vitamin D is stored in the body and may help support mood and wellbeing, particularly during winter. Our bodies are designed to make vitamin D through sun exposure, requiring as little as two hours of sunlight per week.

Vitamin D is not only essential for maintaining strong, healthy bones, it also plays an important role in the regulation of skin cell growth. You mention that your mum has had a clean bill of health but it may be worth double-checking her vitamin D levels and supplementing with vitamin D3 if necessary.

Since getting your daily dose of natural light is crucial to your emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing, you might want to look into light therapy for your mum. Specially designed light boxes that simulate natural daylight inside the home are now widely available for purchase — you can even find them at Boots stores.

I’m a man in my 50s and generally fit and well. However, my libido isn’t what it once was. My wife is very understanding but I’m not about to give up on our sex life. What would you suggest?

This is certainly a common experience for men and women as they enter andropause (for men) and menopause (for women).

Many of the herbal medicines used to improve libido work equally well for men and women, despite the symptoms and effects being very different.

The Peruvian root maca is an excellent example of an adaptogenic herb that helps balance male and female hormones. It has been used as a superfood and sexual healer for thousands of years — it was reputedly given to Inca warriors before battle to increase strength, and used to improve fertility.

Some studies suggest that maca may help improve libido in men and does not appear to significantly affect testosterone levels. Maca is a complete protein and is also high in vitamins and minerals, including calcium and zinc.

Maca works by increasing energy levels, improving mood, and is a powerful antioxidant. You can take it as a supplement in capsule form but it is most commonly used as a powdered superfood added to smoothies, protein shakes, and added into cereals.

Another remedy commonly prescribed for men who want to improve their libido is Muira puama, known in South America as ‘potency wood’. While this herb has a reputation for treating erectile dysfunction, it is equally useful and effective in balancing sex drive (of males and females).

You mention that you are already fit and well, which is a great start. Eating healthy foods, staying well hydrated, and exercising regularly ensure that your organs are well nourished and that your circulatory system is functioning well.

Make sure you manage your stress levels. This not only means taking time out for relaxation activities but also replenishing levels of the important B-group vitamins, taking magnesium to nourish your nervous system and muscles, and supporting quality sleep.