Vitamin D… the sun & Me
Why do some people feel glum during the winter months… Could it be to do with Vitamin D?
Our bodies are extraordinary, it's programmed to keep you alive and will do so by whatever means possible. One of its many requirements is the need for Vitamin D. This essential vitamin helps to regulate calcium and phosphate in the body which ultimately contributes to strong healthy bones (we all want some of that!).
From October to April the sun is too weak for us to be able to make vitamin D via our skin.
(Now this is where I can totally understand why people choose to live in hotter climes during the winter months! - Isn’t it interesting that you might hear frequently;
“I just feel better for it, my bones/joints feel less achy and I am just over all happier”
A staggering 87% of the Uk population are likely insufficient or deficient in Vitamin D (National institute of health 2023)
The stats and research show us that those that live in the UK, or a country that has reduced sunlight hours or strength of sun are recommended to add a vitamin D supplement into their routine during the autumn and winter months.
Some risk factors that are associated with severe deficiency;
1. The elderly - sadly as we age our skin loses the ability to make Vitamin D, plus sometimes when frail getting out of the house can be limited.
2. Having Asian and African heritage. Having a darker skin pigment protects from the sun, but this in turn stops Vitamin D production.
3. Obesity - having a larger body composition will increase the amount to Vitamin D needed in order to sustain a healthy level.
4. Work behind a desk/shifts/inside - this usually means you are inside and generally speaking not able to get outside during those important times to help absorb the sun.
Studies have been conducted on those that work shifts and mainly night shifts, and affects it may have on mental and physical health. Work in the dark (night shift) therefore, inside under artificial light then sleep during the day! - seeing no outside natural sunlight at all.
Common symptoms and conditions are associated with low vitamin D;
General muscle pain and joint stiffness
Chronic pain - such as back and neck pain
Migraine and headaches
Mood and behaviour changes. Such as Depression and Anxiety
Persistant fatigue
Where else can you get Vitamin D?
Most that follow a balanced diet will obtain vitamin D from foods they eat. Foods such as;
Oily fish such as Mackerel, Salmon, Sardines and Herring
Red meat
Liver
Egg yolks
So, although the autumn months are in full swing as we head to the depths of winter. It is worth considering a boost to your immune system and implementing a vitamin D supplement over the winter months, it may be you do not notice a change at all…. But then it could yield high results for things that just can’t seem to be explained!
