Experts told how to survive the lack of sun in winter

In winter, people often experience a lack of sunlight. Experts told Izvestia on February 2 what to do to survive the short daylight hours.

Associate Professor of the Department of Fundamental Medical Disciplines at the State University of Education Yulia Yakimanskaya noted that viral epidemics, depression, avitaminosis, and chronic fatigue are associated with the lack of sunlight in winter. According to her, man has learned to extend the light period artificially, but this light is unnatural, and its prolonged use contributes to deterioration of vision, asthenization of the nervous system, increased anxiety and depressive states.

"It is more correct and useful - to maximize the use of natural rather than artificial light; go outside in the sunny period and if possible actively move; if with outings do not work - pull down blinds or curtains, often look "outside the window" - she advised.

The expert noted that in winter it is natural to increase the period of sleep, and emphasized that it is not worth saving on this. It is necessary to get enough sleep.

"The best prevention of vitamin deficiency - an increase in the diet of vegetables, fruits and greens, all this is available in stores. It will be useful to take a course of complex vitamin preparations. In the diet are useful products with a high content of vitamin D (fatty sea fish, liver, yolk)", - added Yakimanskaya.

Associate Professor of the Department of Labor Psychology and Psychological Counseling of the State University of Education Ekaterina Bulgakova also advised to do sports, yoga, jogging in the fresh air.

"Include in your diet foods rich in vitamin D: fatty fish, eggs and fortified dairy products. These can help compensate for the lack of sunlight," she said.

In addition, the expert recommended maintaining social activity and consulting a psychologist if necessary.

"In the season of exhibitions and theaters, maintain social ties and participate in social events - this helps fight feelings of loneliness and depression, which can increase in winter," she concluded.

Earlier, on January 29, the chief physician of the European Medical Center (EMC), Rozanna Gardashnik, told Izvestia that in order to strengthen immunity in the cold season, it is especially important to follow the diet, avoid stressful situations and follow the sleep regime. According to her, it will be useful for the body to add to the diet products with a high content of vitamin C. This can be cranberries, rose hips, citrus fruits, sauerkraut, garlic.