It is important to ensure you are getting enough nutrients during the colder months. Even when we experience slightly milder temperatures throughout the winter, and we can spend more time outdoors, we are still not getting enough Vitamin D. As winter days are shorter and our sun exposure is limited, it’s essential to ensure you’re getting enough Vitamin D daily for your overall well-being.
In today’s blog, we will dive into the benefits of this important nutrient, and why you should consider making it a part of your winter wellness plan.
Improves bone health
Vitamin D is a key player in calcium absorption in the intestines, which is essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, Vitamin D also aids in the following:
- Helps absorb calcium we receive from food.
- Protects older adults from osteoporosis.
- Promotes healthy functioning of muscles and the immune system.
We need strong muscles to help with balance and minimize the risk of falling and breaking bones.
Adults who don’t get enough Vitamin D can get osteomalacia, a painful condition that makes muscles weak and leads to more bends and breaks. It can also cause Osteoporosis, which is a bone disease that develops when “bone mineral and bone mass decrease, or when the structure and strength of the bone changes.”
Supports the immune system
Ensuring you get the right amount of Vitamin D can also boost your immune system, which defends the body against infections and illnesses. As the common cold and flu (and other respiratory illnesses) make their rounds in homes around the province, it’s a good idea to check the appropriate Vitamin D requirements for you and your family members to help combat sickness this winter.
“Vitamin D can modulate the innate and adaptive immune responses. Deficiency in Vitamin D is associated with increased autoimmunity and an increased susceptibility to infection.” –National Library of Medicine
Regulates mood
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that is related to changes in seasons and can be at its worst during the winter months. Research suggests that there is a correlation between low vitamin D levels and mood disorders. In some cases, vitamin D can help regulate moods and benefit your overall mental well-being.
It is important to ensure that you are taking the correct dosage, as too much can lead to vitamin D toxicity. Use this helpful chart to determine the appropriate amount of the vitamin. When taking your Vitamin D, the time of day doesn’t matter, but do remember to take it with food. While vitamin D is helpful, it is always recommended that you speak with a medical professional before adding any vitamin to your daily routine, especially if you are experiencing any health issues.
As temperatures allow, be sure to take some time during your workday (and weekends) to get outside and soak up some extra natural Vitamin D from the sunshine. Your body, and your mind will thank you!