Are you looking for a healthy snack and way to fuel your body as the fall and winter days get shorter? Try some trail mix!

Trail mix can be packed with nutrients that fuel the body longer, and depending on the ingredients, it can also improve your mood. 

Researchers suggest during the end of Daylight Savings Time there is an increase in S.A.D or Seasonal Affective Disorder. In other words, there is an increase in seasonal depression.

Generally, the lack of sun causes a disruption in our circadian rhythm, also known as the body’s internal clock, which control certain brain activity and hormones in the body. When the circadian rhythm is imbalanced, it changes mood related chemicals and cause depression. Exercise can increase energy levels, improve sleep, reduce anxiety, and release hormones called endorphins that can reduce pain and increase feelings of well-being.

It is also suggested that nature can help with stress reduction, anxiety, and depression. With this in mind, Philadelphia has beautiful trails throughout the city and we encourage you to take a 15-30 minute walk on one of these trails to soak up some sun (vitamin D).

Likewise, certain foods can cause mood changes, such as oats, bananas, berries, and nuts. If you are not feeling like your normal self and need a little boost, try starting your day with our favorite trail mix recipe and a brisk walk on one of the trails listed above.

Trail Mix Recipe

• 1 cup of granola

• ½ cup of Dark Chocolate morsels

• 1 cup plantain chips (for saltiness) 

• 1 cup dried cranberries

• 1 cup yogurt-covered almonds or peanuts

Directions

1. Measure ingredients.

2. Mix ingredients together.

3. Store in an airtight container outside of the refrigerator.

Notes

• Making your own granola is a healthier and cheaper alternative than buying it.
• While dark chocolate is healthiest, any kind of chocolate morsels can be used.
• Dried bananas can be used to substitute plantains.
• Any kind of berry can be used as a substitution for cranberries, such as raisins, blueberries, or strawberries.
• If you aren’t a fan of almonds, you can use pecans, walnuts, or peanuts.
• If you have a food allergy, feel free to omit yogurt-covered products and use something similar instead. 

Be sure to leave us a comment of some of your favorite trail mix ingredients or pictures from your walk!