What helps to cure spring fatigue?

Always tired in spring

Temperatures are rising, nature is blooming – after the cold, dark nights, we're all happy to welcome spring. Nevertheless, many people feel unusually listless and tired during this time when life outdoors is reawakening. The phenomenon known as «spring fatigue» actually exists. It is a reflection of the fact that we are part of nature's cycle; the lack of light during the wintertime coupled with hormonal changes both leave their mark.

Mainly women affected

Iron deficiency can also be a reason for the fatigue. Women in particular are often affected due to menstruation. If fatigue persists, sufferers should see a doctor to have their blood tested.

Hormonal changes make us tired

Like animals in hibernation, humans lower their body temperature slightly in winter, and the lack of light causes them to lead a more passive lifestyle. When it gets warmer again outside, the body’s temperature also increases slightly, and its metabolism and hormone balance adjust to the new light conditions. The blood vessels dilate and blood pressure drops. All these processes can temporarily lower the energy levels of those prone to the condition. Estimates suggest that, when spring arrives, almost every second adult first has to overcome this seasonal fatigue before regaining their usual energy levels again. The best way to avoid this weary feeling is to watch your diet, ensure you get sufficient outdoor exercise – and of course enough sleep.

Getting enough sleep helps

Maintaining regular sleeping hours can be helpful in managing the hormonal changes: with the increase in daylight, the body produces more serotonin again. In turn, it reduces its melatonin production.

Overcoming tiredness with plenty of outdoor exercise

Exercising is particularly good in the spring, especially in the morning hours. Endurance sports like jogging or biking stimulate the body's circulation and beat off fatigue. At least 30 minutes of daily exercise is recommended. Why not incorporate a little more exercise into your daily routine and get off the bus one stop earlier, for example? Also very effective in stimulating circulation are alternating showers or morning exercises.

A balanced diet and plenty of water helps with spring fatigue

What is actually recommended all year round can have a particularly positive effect in spring: drink plenty of water and opt for light foods rather than heavy meals, especially seasonal fruit and vegetables. This ensures that you get enough vitamins, nutrients and minerals . However, the reason is not to compensate for a possible vitamin deficiency – even during the winter months, the choice of food available today ensures that our bodies are easily supplied with sufficient vitamins. It is only in the case of vitamin D, which the body produces itself via UV-B rays, that deficiency symptoms aren't uncommon.