The so-called springtime fatigue is spreading. Lack of concentration, listlessness and less performance are just a few of the side effects that springtime fatigue can bring with it.

In this article, Silvia Bürkle, from a scientific point of view, sheds light on the possible causes of springtime fatigue and what can be done about it.

With the beginning of spring, when nature awakens outside, crocuses sprout and the first daffodils peep out, many people feel tired and fatigue. The so-called springtime fatigue is spreading. Lack of concentration, listlessness and less performance are just a few of the side effects that springtime fatigue can bring with it. Despite sufficient sleep, one feels tired. It seems as if no recovery takes place, no matter how long the sleep lasts.

Causes of springtime fatigue

There can be various reasons for springtime fatigue however, it can be assumed that the hormone balance changes due to the changing temperature and light conditions. In particular, the body’s own hormones serotonin and melatonin are affected by the influence of light.

In addition to the essential amino acid tryptophan and vital substances, the body needs natural light stimuli to produce serotonin, our “good mood” hormone. In spring, when the days get longer and the body is exposed to more natural light, more serotonin is produced accordingly. On the other hand, the production of melatonin is reduced with increasing serotonin. Melatonin is the sleep hormone and in winter, in the dark season, is the hormone that is mostly present.

It is assumed that it is precisely this mechanism, the conversion and regulation of hormones in the body, that causes a lot of problems at the beginning of spring.

But also the temperature fluctuations that occur again and again in spring additionally stress the body, which is especially noticed by people with low blood pressure and those who are prone to weather sensitivity. When it gets warmer outside, the blood vessels dilate, causing blood pressure to drop even further. The consequence: One feels fatigue and tired.

Another cause of springtime fatigue may be the lack of vitamins, especially vitamin D. This vitamin can only be produced by the body with the help of daylight. Although it can also be stored for a while, vitamin D reserves are often reduced to a minimum at the end of winter and need to be replenished quickly.

The body usually takes two to four weeks to adjust to warmer temperatures and longer days. However, you can support the body with simple measures.

What can be done about springtime fatigue?

A good remedy for springtime fatigue is exercise in the fresh air, and spring with its slowly rising temperatures literally invites us to do so.  A daily walk increases well-being and outside activities leave little chance of springtime fatigue, as exercise boosts the circulation and stimulates the production of serotonin. Some scientists who deal with springtime fatigue point out that it is best to go outside for a longer period of time in the morning – without sunglasses – so that the light reaches the brain via the eye, and thus serotonin formation can be pushed even more effectively. An additional proven way to bring the circulation out of “hibernation” in spring is to take alternating showers or visit the sauna now and then.

In general, it is important not to give in to fatigue, this means, one should maintain one’s sleep rhythm and not sleep more than usual.

The right nutrition against springtime fatigue

Proper nutrition is also an important pillar for fighting springtime fatigue. While in winter, hearty meals that are high in fat and carbohydrates are preferred, in spring you should opt for a lighter diet. Fresh fruit and vegetables also provide plenty of vital substances, which are now particularly important for the body. Sprouts and the first wild herbs are very rich in vital nutrients and can enrich vegetables, salads or smoothies.

This does not mean that you should only eat vegetables – in the end, it depends on the right mix. Fish, meat, dairy products – protein foods – should also be on the menu. In addition to vitamins, essential amino acids such as tryptophan are also needed for the formation of hormones, such as serotonin. It is also important to drink enough water. This is because too little fluid in the body promotes poor concentration and fatigue, among other things.

Springtime fatigue does not have to be a necessary evil. Perhaps this should also be seen as an opportunity for a dietary change. The Metabolic Balance nutrition plan provides all the nutrients in the right proportions that the body needs to produce the body’s own hormones and enzymes in sufficient quantities to start fit and full of vitality. This also has the advantage that you can say goodbye at the same time to one or two kilos that have accumulated on your hips over the winter.