4 Ways Autumn Impacts Health & Food Choices in Malta
As autumn arrives in Malta, the seasonal transition brings changes to the body that can impact mood, energy levels, and overall health. Cooler air can lead to dry skin, which requires extra hydration and nourishment through water and healthy fats like olive oil and avocados. Shorter days may increase melatonin production, causing sleepiness, which can be countered with vitamin D-rich foods such as eggs and salmon, along with outdoor activities to boost energy. Mildly cooler temperatures might result in muscle stiffness, but staying active with walks, yoga, and anti-inflammatory foods like fish and turmeric can help maintain flexibility. Seasonal mood shifts due to reduced sunlight can be eased with serotonin-boosting ingredients like tomatoes and leafy greens, as well as outdoor exposure to Malta’s natural beauty. By making simple adjustments to daily routines, residents and visitors can embrace autumn as an opportunity for renewal while enjoying Malta’s vibrant food and lifestyle scene.
Expect These 4 Changes to Your Body This Fall and How to Stay Healthy in Malta
As the days grow shorter and cooler, autumn in Malta brings a shift not just in weather but also in how our bodies and minds respond to the changing season. While the island’s Mediterranean climate offers milder conditions compared to colder regions, the seasonal transition still presents challenges that can affect your mood, energy levels, and overall health. Here are four ways your body may react this fall—and tips to stay vibrant, healthy, and happy while enjoying Malta’s food and lifestyle scene.
1. Dry Skin Needs Extra Care
The cooler air of autumn holds less moisture, which can leave your skin feeling dry and less supple. Malta’s breezy fall days can exacerbate this, especially if you spend time outdoors enjoying scenic walks or al fresco dining. Your skin, the body’s largest organ, requires extra hydration during this season to maintain its elasticity and protect against the appearance of wrinkles.
Combat dryness by drinking plenty of water—Malta’s natural mineral waters are an excellent choice—and moisturizing daily. Incorporate foods rich in healthy fats, like olive oil, avocados, and nuts, into your diet to nourish your skin from the inside out. After a day exploring Malta’s coastline or enjoying a meal at a seaside restaurant, don’t forget to layer up with lightweight scarves and jackets to protect your skin from the elements.
2. Feeling Sleepier Than Usual
As the days grow darker, your body naturally produces more melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. While Malta doesn’t experience the extreme darkness of northern climates, the shorter daylight hours can still leave you feeling drowsy. This change may tempt you to linger in bed longer or feel sluggish during the day.
Boost your energy by incorporating vitamin D into your daily routine. While Malta’s sunny days are perfect for soaking up natural sunlight, cloudy fall mornings might mean you need extra support. Consider taking a vitamin D supplement or enjoying foods that are naturally rich in this nutrient, such as eggs, salmon, and fortified dairy products. Pairing these foods with a brisk morning walk along Malta’s picturesque promenades can help you shake off the sleepiness and start your day refreshed.
3. Cold Weather Stiffness
Even in Malta’s mild autumn, cooler temperatures can lead to stiffness in muscles and joints. Blood flow to the limbs slows when it’s cold, which can make it harder to get moving—especially after a cozy meal at one of Malta’s many restaurants.
Stay limber with gentle physical activity. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through Mdina’s historic streets, yoga by the sea, or light stretching before heading out for a traditional Maltese dinner, movement improves circulation and keeps your joints flexible. To further support joint health, incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like fresh fish, turmeric, and ginger into your meals. Many restaurants in Malta offer dishes featuring these ingredients, making it easy to blend physical wellness with culinary enjoyment.
4. Seasonal Mood Shifts
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can affect mood, energy, and even appetite, as reduced sunlight impacts serotonin levels—the “happy” hormone. While Malta’s sunny climate provides more light than many other countries, the shorter days can still leave you feeling down or lethargic.
Light therapy is an effective solution, but don’t underestimate the power of food to lift your mood. Maltese cuisine is rich in serotonin-boosting ingredients such as tomatoes, whole grains, and dark leafy greens. Indulge in hearty vegetable stews or fresh salads from local restaurants to keep your body and mind balanced. Pair your meal with a refreshing herbal tea—like chamomile or lemon balm—to soothe stress and restore calm.
Additionally, make time for outdoor activities that connect you with Malta’s natural beauty, such as dining on a terrace overlooking the sea or exploring one of the island’s many hiking trails. Sunlight exposure, even for short periods, can work wonders for your mental health during fall.
Embrace Autumn the Maltese Way
This autumn, while Malta’s stunning landscapes and vibrant restaurant scene tempt you outdoors, don’t forget to prioritize your physical and mental health. By making small adjustments to your daily routine—hydrating your skin, eating nutrient-rich foods, staying active, and soaking up natural light—you can keep the seasonal changes from dampening your mood or energy.
So whether you’re savoring a pumpkin risotto at a Valletta café or enjoying a scenic sunset hike in Gozo, remember that autumn is a season of renewal. With thoughtful care, it’s the perfect time to embrace a healthier and happier lifestyle in Malta.