Category: Blog

As the long light of summer fades and the cooler, shorter days of autumn approach, it’s a pivotal moment to recalibrate our routines – to both sustain physical energy and cultivate mental wellbeing.

At Hammersmith Health Books, we often explore how seasonal changes affect our health and how we can support our bodies and minds through them. One of our titles, The Energy Equation by Dr Sarah Myhill and Craig Robinson, is especially helpful when it comes to understanding how to protect and optimise our energy levels – something we all need a bit more of as the sunlight fades and the pace of life starts to shift. Here are some key ways to stay healthy and positive through the seasonal transition:

1. Fuel your energy engine

In The Energy Equation, Dr Myhill outlines how the body works like an engine, and like any engine, it needs the right fuel to function properly. As we head into autumn, this means being mindful of what we eat, aiming for nutrient-rich, warming foods that support our internal systems.

Now is a great time to embrace seasonal vegetables – see what is recommended in these authors’ related book, Paleo-Ketogenic: the why and the how [link]. Think hearty stews and homemade soups based on bone broth, and and slow-cooked meals that are easy on the digestion and packed with vitamins and minerals. Season them with Sunshine salt [link to entry on Sarah’s website] and add warming spices like ginger, turmeric and cinnamon which not only enhance flavour but also support circulation and help combat inflammation.

And let’s not forget hydration – just because it’s cooler doesn’t mean we need less water. Herbal teas, warm water with lemon or even broth-based drinks can help you stay hydrated and warm.

2. Prioritise rest and recovery

Dr Myhill is clear on this: energy is not just about output – it is also about rest. Sleep is when our bodies do their most important repair work. But shorter daylight hours and increased screen time can interfere with our natural sleep rhythms.

As summer ends, consider adjusting your evening routine to align more closely with natural light. Try dimming the lights earlier, reducing screen use before bed, and incorporating calming habits like reading, gentle stretching or sipping chamomile tea. These small changes can make a big difference in your energy and mood the next day.

If your sleep still feels off, it might be worth reviewing your bedtime environment: is your room cool and dark enough? Is your sleep schedule consistent? These are small tweaks with powerful effects.

3. Support your immune system

With colder weather comes increased exposure to viruses and more time spent indoors. In The Energy Equation, immune stress is seen as a major energy drain – so keeping your immune system strong is essential for staying energised.

Focus on foods high in Vitamin C (like citrus fruits, red peppers and broccoli, plus supplementation), get outside for some Vitamin D while there is still some strength in the sun (or supplement if needed), and continue to support gut health with fermented foods and/or probiotics. Balanced blood sugar from a PK diet and quality sleep both play a role in keeping you well, and take a look at these authors’ book The Infection Game [link] for advice on what to do if symptoms strike.

It’s also important to manage stress, as chronic stress weakens immune function. Mindful practices, laughter, connection with loved ones, and time to yourself can all help buffer stress through the darker months.

The seasonal shift from summer into autumn doesn’t have to mean a slump in energy or mood. With the right mindset and lifestyle adjustments – rooted in the practical insights from The Energy Equation and beyond – you can support both physical vitality and emotional balance through the months ahead.

So as the leaves begin to turn and the pace of life changes, consider this your seasonal check-in. Nourish your body with wholesome PK food, get outside as much as possible before the days get short, honour your need for rest, and make space for calm and joy in your daily life.

Buy Dr. Myhill’s Sunshine Salt here.

Get Your Brain off Grain: How a gluten-free diet could improve your mental and neurological health is a groundbreaking book that explores the compelling relationship between gluten and mental health. Combining personal experiences with cutting-edge research, the authors present a clear, evidence-based look at how gluten may influence mood, cognition, anxiety, and even severe psychiatric conditions. This accessible yet scientifically robust guide empowers readers with practical advice, screening tools, and dietary strategies that go beyond fads to deliver meaningful change. Whether you’re a clinician, a patient, or simply curious about how diet affects the mind, this book offers a new lens through which to view mental well-being.

But how did such a book come to be? It began with Dr Jessica Hellings, an award-winning psychiatrist who experienced a dramatic personal transformation after going gluten-free. Long-standing issues like anxiety, brain fog and nerve pain improved almost overnight, prompting her to investigate the growing body of scientific literature connecting gluten and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Her dual perspective – as both patient and practitioner – fostered a unique insight into how powerful dietary change could be. While researching for a review article, she came across the work of Dr Deanna Kelly, whose pioneering studies had already laid much of the foundation in this area.
Struck by the rigour and relevance of Dr Kelly’s research, Dr Hellings reached out in early 2020 with a proposal: to co-author a book that could translate their collective knowledge into something that could truly help people. Dr Kelly immediately recognised the synergy. Together, they decided to bring on board Sharon Pugh, a clinically trained researcher and nutrition expert with a deep understanding of gluten’s systemic effects, including on the brain.

Dr Deanna Kelly brought over 15 years of experience investigating the immunological and psychiatric effects of gluten. Her work at the Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, including NIH-funded clinical trials, was instrumental in showing how gluten could drive inflammation in the body and brain – particularly in people with schizophrenia. For Dr Kelly, the book represented a way to answer the recurring calls from families, patients and clinicians looking for actionable advice grounded in science.
Sharon Pugh added yet another dimension. With two decades of experience exploring the gluten–brain connection, she had seen how dietary interventions could dramatically impact patient outcomes. Her contributions in integrative nutrition and wellness coaching helped bridge the gap between theory and everyday clinical practice. When invited to join the project, it felt like a natural continuation of her life’s work.

Together, Dr Hellings, Dr Kelly and Ms Pugh shared not only professional expertise but also a deep personal and ethical commitment to bringing under-recognised science into public view. They recognised that the connection between gluten and mental health is still often misunderstood, dismissed, or ignored – despite the evidence. This book, then, is more than just a guide; it’s a call to re-examine how we understand brain health and to empower readers with knowledge that could transform lives.
Their collaboration is a testament to what can happen when diverse minds come together with a shared mission. Through Get Your Brain off Grain, they aim to spark a new conversation – one rooted in science, compassion and the lived experiences of both patients and professionals.

As the days grow warmer, many of us naturally crave lighter meals, vibrant flavours, and fresh ingredients. Summer is the perfect time to refresh our approach to eating – not just for enjoyment, but for our overall health and wellbeing. 

In the heat, hydration and diet go hand-in-hand. Staying well-hydrated helps regulate body temperature, supports digestion, and keeps energy levels up – especially when paired with nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory foods. That’s where the Mediterranean way of eating comes into its own. 

Dr Barry Sears, creator of the Zone Diet, brings together the latest science in The Mediterranean Zone to show how combining Zone principles with traditional Mediterranean foods can promote long-term health and reduce inflammation – a major factor in ageing, fatigue and chronic disease. 

One of the joys of summer is the abundance of seasonal produce. Tomatoes, courgettes, aubergines, peppers, cucumbers, fresh herbs, and berries are all at their peak – bursting with flavour and nutrients. By choosing what’s in season, you not only enjoy better taste, but also support local growers and reduce the environmental impact of your food.  

Seasonal eating is also a key tenet of the Mediterranean lifestyle. It’s about tuning in to nature’s cycles and allowing them to guide your meals. It encourages simplicity and variety, which naturally leads to a more balanced and satisfying diet. Start small by introducing these summer-friendly ideas: 

• Grilled vegetables with olive oil and herbs – a colourful side or base for a light salad 

• Chickpea and tomato salad with cucumber, lemon and fresh mint 

• Baked fish with lemon and oregano, served with a warm lentil and spinach salad 

• Greek-style yoghurt with berries and a drizzle of honey for a cooling, protein-rich dessert 

Eating with the seasons isn’t just a culinary trend – it’s a powerful way to stay connected to your body’s needs and the world around you. The Mediterranean Zone brings timeless wisdom together with cutting-edge science, making it easier than ever to eat well, feel great, and enjoy every bite. 

Whether you’re hosting friends, heading to the park, or simply enjoying a quiet lunch in the garden, let this summer be a celebration of fresh, nourishing food that supports your long-term health – from the inside out. 

Summer and Mental Health: How the Season Affects Our Mood, featuring 5 practical ways to support your mental health during the summer months

Summer often brings sunshine, long evenings, and beautiful sunsets, but it can also throw our mental health off balance in surprising ways. More exposure to sunlight helps the brain release serotonin, the “feel good” chemical linked to mood regulation. That’s why many of us feel happier and more energetic on bright summer days. The longer, warmer days also encourage more physical activity (whether it’s walking, swimming, or simply spending more time with friends). These activities naturally boost endorphins and help reduce stress. In addition, the abundance of natural daylight helps reset our internal body clocks, often leading to better sleep. That said, when temperatures soar at night, sleep can easily be disrupted, leading to fatigue and irritability.
Spending time in nature, whether it’s a leafy park, woods, or a beachside stroll, has been shown to reduce stress, calm the mind and sharpen attention. Green and blue spaces can offer a mental reset that’s especially valuable in our busy lives.

However, summer can also bring challenges for mental wellbeing. Extreme heat is known to increase irritability, aggression, fatigue, and anxiety. Some studies even show a rise in mental health-related visits during heatwaves. There’s also a lesser-known form of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) that occurs in the summer. Though less common than the winter version, around 1% of people experience summer depression, often triggered by heat, humidity, sleep disruption, and the pressure to be socially active.

In A User’s Manual for the Human Body: How Traditional Chinese Medicine helps the body heal itself, author Alex Wu emphasises the importance of balancing Qi (energy flow) and blood, especially in summer, when the body faces more external “heat.” He suggests practices such as proper hydration, light exercise, and adequate rest to help the body stay balanced. These gentle self-care routines are designed to help offset the intensity of the season and promote internal harmony.

Here are five practical ways to support your mental health during the summer months:

1. Stay cool and hydrated: Drink plenty of water, wear light, breathable fabrics, and use fans or stay in shaded areas to reduce heat-related stress.
2. Time your outdoor activities: Plan walks or exercise in the early morning or evening when temperatures are lower, and take breaks in the shade to stay refreshed. If you have a dog, its best to walk them around these times as well when the ground and overall temperature is cooler.
3. Keep a summer routine: Stick to consistent wake-up and bedtimes, and aim for daily light exercise to support your circadian rhythm.
4. Use cool-down rituals: Cold showers, a splash of cool water on the face, or misting your skin can quickly lower body temperature and relieve tension.
5. Prioritise nature time: Daily contact with green or blue spaces, such as gardening, walking in the park, or visiting the coast, can restore focus and lift your mood.

Summer’s warmth brings both benefits and challenges to mental health. By understanding how heat, light and environment affect us (and by following simple, seasonal routines inspired by works like Alex Wu’s), you can make this season not just bearable, but truly nourishing.

In What Becomes of the Broken Hearted?, author Juliet Sullivan invites us into one of the most confusing and frightening moments of her life – lying in a hospital bed in October 2023, processing the shock diagnosis of takotsubo cardiomyopathy, more commonly known as broken heart syndrome. What followed was not just a journey of recovery, but one of curiosity, grief, discovery and, ultimately, creativity.

This unique and moving book is part memoir, part investigation, part cookbook, and part gallows-humour survival guide. It’s about what happens when the heart breaks – literally and figuratively, and how we begin to piece it back together again.

With no clear cause, cure or even consensus among medical professionals, takotsubo cardiomyopathy remains a little-understood and under-researched condition. For Juliet, simply being told “we don’t exactly know” wasn’t enough. She began asking questions – first to doctors and nurses, then to fellow patients, and eventually to the internet. What she discovered was a sea of uncertainty, but also a community of people trying to make sense of their experiences. That quest for understanding became the seed of this book. If no one else had written the guide she so badly needed, then she would write it herself.

But this isn’t just a medical mystery. The story of Juliet’s heart condition is entwined with a much deeper emotional wound – the suicide of her mother six months earlier. While not everyone who develops takotsubo has suffered emotional trauma, many have. In Juliet’s case, her loss was undeniably a major contributing factor.

Writing the book became a kind of therapy – a space to reflect not only on her health but on her childhood, the mental health struggles of her mother, and the unspoken pain so many carry. Tackling such difficult themes with honesty and bravery, Juliet also offers a voice for those navigating the aftermath of suicide – still one of the great taboos in our society.

Despite the weight of the topics she touches upon, the author has no interest in writing a book that leaves the reader emotionally crushed. Humour, she says, is essential to surviving the darkest times, and this book is laced with moments of warmth and wit. There are also recipes. Yes, really. Why recipes? Because food, like laughter, brings comfort. And because a heart-healthy lifestyle is part of what comes next after takotsubo. The inclusion of recipes is unexpected, yes – but then again, so is a book that manages to combine cardiology, bereavement, mental health, and humour without missing a beat.

What Becomes of the Broken Hearted? is the book Juliet Sullivan needed when she was in hospital. It shines a light on a neglected condition, offers solidarity to those grieving, and reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit. It is, at its core, a book about what it means to survive – not just physically, but emotionally. This is a story for anyone who’s been blindsided by illness, who’s lost someone they love, who’s sought answers where none seem to exist – or who simply wants to feel less alone.

As summer approaches and the days grow longer, there’s one very good reason to get outside and soak up the sunshine: vitamin D. Often called the “sunshine vitamin”, vitamin D plays a vital role in keeping us healthy… and the best part? We can make it ourselves, with a little help from the sun.

As our author Dr Sarah Myhill reminds us in the second edition of her comprehensive guide to maintaining good health, Ecological Medicine, humans originally evolved in Africa, running around under the hot sun with dark skin to protect against burning UV rays. It turns out that same sunshine helped us create vitamin D through a clever natural process: UV light acts on cholesterol in the skin to produce this essential nutrient. Once made, vitamin D travels through the body, acting as a powerful anti-inflammatory and playing a part in protecting us from a wide range of conditions.

As humans migrated further from the Equator, sunshine became harder to come by – and so lighter skin evolved to allow us to absorb more UV light and keep vitamin D production going. In Northern Europe, where sun is scarcer, people also relied on vitamin D-rich fish to make up the difference. But despite all this clever adaptation, most modern Caucasians are still vitamin D deficient, particularly in cooler climates like the UK.

Why does that matter? Vitamin D helps protect against a host of chronic conditions, including osteoporosis, fractures, high blood pressure, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and even infections. It improves muscle strength, helping us stay active and avoid falls, and supports our immune system too.

The good news is with summer on its way, now’s the perfect time to top up naturally. Just an hour of Mediterranean sun can help your body produce around 10,000 IU (international units) of vitamin D – and while we may not get quite that intensity here in the UK, every bit of sun helps.

So, as long as you’re sensible about sun exposure, take advantage of the warmer weather. Get outside, roll up your sleeves, enjoy a walk, a garden potter, or a picnic in the park – and let your body do what it was built to do: make vitamin D!

Dr Sarah Myhill’s Ecological Medicine offers a practical, evidence-based approach to achieving and maintaining health. Focused on getting the basics right—through diet, supplements, sleep, and exercise—her methods are accessible and affordable for both practitioners and motivated individuals. With real-life case studies and her tried-and-tested ‘Groundhog regimes’, this book makes ecological medicine something we can all benefit from. For more on vitamin D and how it fits into the bigger picture of health, take a look at our book Ecological Medicine, now in its second edition.