When I first moved to England from Brazil, I never considered how much I’d miss the sun. Coming from a place with abundant sunshine year-round, I didn’t think much about the importance of sunlight for health. Back home, we were always told to be careful of too much sun – slather on sunscreen, stay in the shade and protect your skin. No one mentioned that sunlight was actually doing something magical – helping our bodies make Vitamin D! It wasn’t until I faced my first few winters here that I started feeling like a bear in hibernation – sluggish, sleepy, and just not myself.
It took me a few years to understand that what I was feeling during the winter months, especially in January and February, was more than just a seasonal slump. Routine blood tests eventually revealed that my Vitamin D levels were low. My GP kindly explained that, in England, sunshine can be more of a guest star than a regular feature – especially in the winter months. That’s when I learned the importance of keeping my Vitamin D levels topped up.
Since then, I’ve made it a priority to start taking Vitamin D supplements from the end of September through April. This small change has made a big difference in how I feel throughout the colder months. I also make sure to get exposure to natural daylight every morning. One habit that helps is walking my daughters to school. This 25 to 30-minute walk not only ensures we get our steps in but also allows us to soak in natural daylight.
Why is vitamin D essential for your health?
(Source: NHS, Vitamin D)
Vitamin D isn’t just some trendy nutrient – it’s essential for keeping us feeling our best. Here’s why:
- Bone Health – Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which is essential for strong bones, teeth and muscles. Maintaining adequate Vitamin D levels in women can reduce the risk of osteoporosis later in life.
- Mood Regulation – Low Vitamin D levels are strongly connected to symptoms of depression or seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Ensuring sufficient Vitamin D intake can improve mood and overall mental wellbeing.
Simple ways to boost your vitamin D levels
Taking care of your Vitamin D levels is a simple yet powerful way to boost your energy, mood, and overall health. It’s especially important as we juggle multiple roles and responsibilities. So don’t underestimate this essential nutrient’s impact on your wellbeing.
- Catch Some Rays – Make it a habit to get outside during daylight hours, even if it’s just for a short walk. Natural sunlight is one of the best sources of Vitamin D.
- Eat the Good Stuff – Incorporate foods rich in Vitamin D, such as oily fish (salmon, mackerel), red meat, eggs, fortified foods (fat spreads and breakfast cereals) and liver (avoid liver if you are pregnant).
- Supplement Smart – From the end of September to April, consider taking a Vitamin D supplement. (Always check with a healthcare provider before changing your diet or supplement routine.)
I’ll save the benefits of morning walks and getting those steps in for another blog post, where I share how my morning routine transforms my mood, energy, and wellbeing. Let’s prioritise our health and wellbeing, starting with Vitamin D.
Stay well and enjoy the sunshine when you can! (But remember to follow safe sun exposure guidelines.)
