In Russia, nearly half of the population experiences heightened fatigue during the colder months, with about 49% reporting greater lethargy in autumn and winter than at other times of the year. At the same time, most people attempt to address these symptoms through nutritional supplements and vitamins, while only 17% make changes to their daily diet that include fresh vegetables. These patterns come from a Grodan survey summarized by socialbites.ca, reflecting how people respond to seasonal energy dips.
Specifically, the study found that 45% of participants frequently feel lethargic or apathetic during autumn and winter, 37% report persistent weakness and fatigue, and 32% notice sadness or a persistently low mood. Only 28% can claim a reliably positive mood during the cold season, about 25% experience a noticeable boost in energy, and roughly 21% feel a surge of vitality in these months. The data highlight a common seasonal cycle where mood and energy shift, and many people search for strategies to counteract these changes.
When it comes to coping strategies, the most popular approach is taking nutritional supplements and vitamins, used by about 73% of respondents. Other widely adopted practices include increasing sleep, cited by 48%, engaging in regular physical activity by 39%, and a smaller share (23%) increasing alcohol consumption during the winter. About 20% seek out seasonal activities such as mushroom foraging in autumn or skiing and ice skating in winter. Only 17% decide to focus more on their diet, including adding fresh vegetables, to influence how they feel during the colder months.
The study also reveals concerns about fresh vegetables in the cold season. Twenty percent of Russians report that they basically do not eat fresh vegetables during winter because they believe these products carry pesticides and may harm the body. Another 12% say winter vegetables taste bland, and 7% hold the view that they do not know the growing conditions under which these vegetables are produced. These perceptions influence dietary choices and may contribute to the low uptake of fresh produce in colder months.
Historically, Russians have discussed the potential negative consequences of self-prescribing dietary supplements. This ongoing conversation underscores the importance of informed guidance on nutrition and seasonal health, especially when people lean on supplements or adjust their diets to manage energy and mood during autumn and winter. In the broader context, experts often emphasize balanced intake, safe supplement use, and whether dietary changes may complement other healthy habits to promote well-being during the colder seasons. ”}