Optimize Your Health This Winter With Genetics

Ever wonder why winter feels so draining?

It’s not just the colder weather or longer nights.

The winter solstice marks the shortest day of the year…

And it’s throwing off your body’s internal balance, whether you realize it or not.

Shorter days can throw your hormones, sleep cycles, and even your mood into a tailspin.

If you’ve been feeling off there’s a good chance your circadian rhythm is out of sync.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening, and how you can thrive this winter:

Vitamin D

Sunlight isn’t just for warmth…

It's your body’s main source of vitamin D.

• Low vitamin D can tank your mood, energy, and immune function.

• VDR gene variations can limit your ability to absorb and use vitamin D, even with sunlight or supplements.

Your Body’s Internal Clock

The CLOCK gene helps regulate your circadian rhythm, influencing your sleep-wake cycle and hormone production.

• During shorter days, this system can become misaligned, disrupting melatonin and cortisol production.

• This causes poor sleep, low energy, and increased cravings.

Mood, Behavior, and Genetics

Seasonal mood changes aren’t just about the weather…

• Variants in the 5-HTTPLR gene (linked to serotonin) and DRD2 gene (connected to dopamine) may make you more prone to seasonal affective disorder.

• This is why winter often feels like a battle for focus and motivation.

Tips for a Healthier Winter

1. Boost Vitamin D: Get supplements if needed. Aim for foods like salmon, egg yolks, and fortified products.

2. Maximize Morning Light: Spend at least 20 minutes outside in natural light each morning to anchor your circadian rhythm.

3. Embrace Red Light Therapy: This can mimic sunlight’s benefits and help regulate hormones.

4. Stick to a Sleep Routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily, even on weekends.

5. Move Daily: Regular exercise supports dopamine and serotonin production.

Knowing how your CLOCK, DRD2, and VDR genes work can help you tailor a winter routine that aligns with your biology.

If you want to dig deeper into how your genetics influence your sleep, mood, and energy…

Now is the time to explore personalized solutions.

Book a call with me to get personalized coaching and a plan tailored to your unique biology.

Let’s turn this winter into a season of renewal.

Until next time,

Kashif Khan

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Information on this site is provided for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical advice from your physician or other medical professional. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly contact your regular healthcare provider.