Fresh Facts Archive

Beat the Winter Blues in 5 Simple Steps

Did you know the winter blues is an actual condition that affects millions of people each year? As it gets colder – and the days get shorter – the lack of sunlight causes some people to feel mildly depressed. Some may even turn to unhealthy comfort food or inactivity to feel better. Thankfully there are healthier options that not only ward off the pesky winter blues, but actually boost your mood.

Get enough sleep and exercise. The ideal amount of sleep you should aim for is 7 to 9 hours each night. And getting at least 30 minutes of heart-pumping daily activity means you’ll produce more endorphins – brain chemicals that will give you that “good mood” feeling.

Eat lighter fare. Forget the greasy comfort foods that’ll weigh you down – especially anything fried. Try switching to something lighter, like First Watch’s Healthy Turkey omelet.

Eat whole grains. Carbohydrates, like those in First Watch’s Cranberry Nut Quaker® Oatmeal, help make serotonin, another “happy” brain chemical. Whole-grain carbs also keep your blood sugar in check and give you a healthy boost of fiber.

Eat more fruits and vegetables. Plant chemicals are key in fighting winter colds and flu. Aim to eat a fruit and a vegetable with every meal and snack. The Siesta Key Cocktail® and Health Nut Salad at First Watch both are loaded with flu-busting fruits and vegetables.

Don’t be a hermit. Socializing with your friends can also help keep you in a great mood. Why not invite them to share fresh, made-to-order Breakfast, Brunch and Lunch at your favorite Daytime Café?

About Dr. Gerbstadt

Dr. Christine Gerbstadt, MD, RD, CDE is a Board Certified Physician, Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator. She completed her MD in Philadelphia and her residency training in Anesthesiology at Harvard Medical School's Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston after earning a Master of Public Health at University of California, Berkeley. She also serves as a National Media Spokesperson for the American Diabetes Association. Dr. Gerbstadt works with First Watch to provide nutritional analysis of all menu offerings and provides counsel on First Watch's mission to provide healthy alternatives.