Winter Wellness Spotlight: Why Vitamin D Matters in the Winter
As winter settles in, shorter days and colder temperatures often mean less time outdoors, more time inside, and a greater risk of vitamin D deficiency. When your skin is exposed to sunlight, your body naturally produces vitamin D. During the winter months, however, getting enough of this essential nutrient can be more challenging, yet just as important for overall health.
What Does Winter Have to Do With It?
In the warmer months, spending just 15-30 minutes a day in direct sunlight when the sun is at its highest can help your body produce sufficient vitamin D. You don’t need to lie out in the sun; exposing your face and hands is often enough when sunlight is strong and direct.
Winter brings several challenges that increase the risk of vitamin D deficiency. The sun sits lower in the sky, especially in the northern hemisphere, making it less effective for vitamin D production. Colder temperatures also mean more time spent indoors and heavier clothing, both of which significantly reduce the amount of sunlight your skin is exposed to.
Food vs. Sunlight
While sunlight is the most efficient way to produce vitamin D, certain foods can help support healthy levels. Fatty fish such as salmon are naturally rich in vitamin D, and fortified foods like cereals and orange juice are great options to incorporate into your winter diet. However, diet alone may not always be enough to meet your body’s needs during the colder months.
Benefits of Vitamin D
Vitamin D does far more than support bone health. Its wide-ranging benefits include:
Bone Health
Immune System Support
Insulin Regulation
Cardiovascular Health
Supplementation
Many people benefit from vitamin D supplementation during the winter months, especially when sun exposure and diet are not enough. Supplementation can help maintain healthy vitamin D levels and support overall wellness.
Here at Sierra IV, we offer vitamin D injections that can be added to any IV treatment. This is an effective and convenient way to ensure your body is getting adequate vitamin D during the winter season.
Winter is the perfect time to be proactive about your health. Supporting your vitamin D levels can help strengthen your immune system, improve energy, and promote overall wellness throughout the colder months. If you’re interested in learning more, contact us today! Our experienced team of nurses would be happy to create an IV therapy plan tailored to your needs and your body.
Sources:
https://www.bcm.edu/news/getting-adequate-vitamin-d-in-the-fall-and-winter
https://www.renown.org/blog/the-essential-guide-to-vitamin-d
