Vitamins for Winter Blues

Winter blues, medically known as seasonal affective disorder, is a type of depression. It is typically triggered by cold temperatures, lack of exposure to sunlight and increased indoor confinement. Symptoms include sleep disturbances, depression, carbohydrate cravings, social withdrawal and increased appetite, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Although seasonal affective disorder may require the attention of a physician or counselor, certain vitamins may help decrease depression, appetite problems and sleep problems associated with this condition. Talk to your doctor if you plan to increase your vitamin intake to treat seasonal affective disorder.

Cobalamin

Cobalamin, or vitamin B-12, is found in red meats, poultry, fish, milk, cheese and eggs, according to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." It is also available in supplement form, typically as a component of B complex vitamin supplements. Cobalamin is necessary for calming your nervous system, which may help treat sleep problems associated with seasonal affective disorder. It also enhances your brain's production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter chemical that helps stabilize mood.

Vitamin B-6

Vitamin B-6, or pyridoxine, may help increase the production of serotonin in your brain, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter chemical that may help elevate your mood and alleviate depression linked to seasonal affective disorder. You can increase your vitamin B-6 intake by taking B complex supplements or by consuming foods such as spinach, walnuts, bananas, black beans, sunflower seeds and eggs.

Niacin

Niacin, also known as vitamin B-3, helps improve circulation in the blood vessels in your brain, according to the Balches. This may help increase the levels of vitamins and minerals available to produce serotonin and acetylcholine, alleviating depression and improving sleep. Niacin also improves absorption in your digestive system of fats and proteins, which are necessary for building and maintaining healthy brain cells. Dandelion greens, alfalfa, dairy products, carrots and potatoes are abundant sources of niacin. This vitamin is also available in B complex vitamin supplements.