Surviving The Seasonal Transition

(WUSA)--- The transition from daylight savings to standard time can cause some biological confusion in our bodies.

Some people feel alternately sleepy and anxious during these few fall months.

Sleep experts say this is a normal reaction as the season changes, especially when we set our clocks back in the fall.

That's because Circadian rhythms are affected by the loss of light, with darkness coming earlier each evening.

Circadian rhythms can alter how we are at work and home, but there are a few suggestions from the National Center for Health Statistics to help ease you through this transition.

First, try taking a walk or run in the morning. By changing your outdoor exercise routine from evening to morning, you allow your body to enjoy the benefits of sunlight.

Next, alter what you eat. Vitamins such as B12 or folic acid help calm the nervous system, especially the part affecting your mood.

Beans, like soybeans or edamame are a quick snack pick me up.

Also, seek out selenium rich foods. Selenium is a type of antioxidant that counters stress in the brain.

Eat a sliver of cheese sprinkled with red pepper and it will give you just the right dose to fight off that midday sleepiness.

Last but not least, if the time change and shorter stretches of daylight leave you feeling gloomy even after a transition period, you may have something called Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD.

SAD can be effectively treated with light box therapy and other techniques.