As the holiday spirit fades and winter settles in, many people find themselves battling the winter blues. DJ Blatner, a registered dietitian nutritionist and NOW Wellness Expert, explains, "Winter brings shorter days, colder weather, and for many, a dip in mood." While this seasonal slump isn't classified as an official mental health condition, it can still bring symptoms akin to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which impacts around 5% of the U.S. population each year. Feelings of sadness, changes in sleep patterns, and a general lack of energy are common during these colder months.

So what can you do to lift your spirits? The National Institutes of Health (NIH) suggests engaging in outdoor activities, socializing, and utilizing light boxes to help combat the gloom. When emotions feel heavy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can also be effective by reframing negative thoughts and fostering healthy behaviors.

Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining mental health during the winter. With shorter days and less sunlight, some might need extra support through dietary supplements. "Science-backed supplements can lift spirits, calm the mind, and promote a brighter outlook throughout winter," says Blatner, who provides us with a curated gift guide for mood-boosting supplements.

Top Mood-Boosting Supplements to Brighten Your Winter

1. **NOW Calm & Focus ($30.39):** This supplement features Zembrin, an herb known to reduce anxiety and improve mental clarity swiftly. It's paired with GABA, renowned for its calming properties.

2. **Harney & Sons Winter Blues ($49.95):** This tea kit combines anxiety-relieving lavender with energizing blueberry green tea. Herbal solutions like these have been used for centuries to promote wellness.

3. **Jarrow Formulas Mood Multi+ ($37.99):** A multivitamin designed to support immunity and energy with essential vitamins, it includes Zembrin for quick calm. Perfect for battling fatigue and enhancing overall well-being.

4. **Trace Winter Wellness Kit ($58):** This kit includes colloidal silver for immune support, gummies packed with vitamins D and K, along with a fun free beanie to keep warm.

5. **1906 Edibles Bliss 1:1 20pk ($35):** Infused with kanna and a small dose of cannabis, these edibles promise to elevate your mood while enhancing calmness and focus.

6. **Ritual Stress Relief ($54):** Known for a sustained release, this supplement combines ashwagandha with calming herbs to lower stress throughout the day.

7. **Moon Juice Cosmic Cocoa ($44):** This adaptogenic hot chocolate includes potent ingredients that not only please the palate but also elevate mood and energy levels.

8. **Black Girl Vitamins Vitamin D3 ($25):** Critical during winter months due to reduced sunlight exposure, especially for the Black community, these gummies are essential for boosting mood and overall health.

9. **Cielo Wellness Bundle ($99.95):** A thoughtfully curated trio targeting gut health, inflammation, and all-around nutrient support to keep you well this winter.

10. **NOW True Calm ($19.99):** A formulation that supports the brain's calming neurotransmitters, this blend is ideal for alleviating the stress that often arises in colder months.

11. **Jarrow MagMind Immuno-Stress ($36.99):** Combines immune-boosting and stress-relieving ingredients designed to enhance both physical and mental resilience.

**Bonus: Thorne Stress Test ($149):** If someone you know is struggling with symptoms of stress, this at-home test analyzes cortisol levels to provide personalized recommendations for health and wellness.

These recommendations are not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. Always consult a healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your health routine. Whether seeking to uplift your own spirits or find the perfect gift for a loved one, these supplements could help navigate through the dark winter months with a little more brightness and joy!