December Issue 2023

Nurturing Your Health
Through Winter: The
Importance of Vitamin D
Written By:
Madi Cashman
As winter starts with its chillier and shorter days, many of us take comfort in cozy indoor activities.
Whether it's huddling by a warm fireplace with a good book or putting on a snug pair of socks, the
season presents opportunities to embrace comfort and relaxation. However, there's a potential
downside to these extended periods spent indoors which is lower levels of Vitamin D.1
Vitamin D, a crucial nutrient for overall health, becomes a concern during the winter months due to
reduced sunlight exposure. With less sunshine and limited outdoor activity, our bodies absorb less
of this vital vitamin through the skin.1 Fortunately, there are multiple ways to fight the effects of
Vitamin D deficiency and maintain health even when the sun isn't shining brightly.
One of the approaches to maintaining healthy Vitamin D levels is through your diet. Surprisingly,
you
may already be consuming some Vitamin D-rich foods without even realizing it. Just as oranges are
known for their Vitamin C content and meat is a source of protein, several foods provide Vitamin
D.2 These include:
1. Salmon
2. Cheese
3. Fortified milk
4. Mushrooms
5. Egg Yolks
Additionally, certain food products, such as milk and some cereals, are fortified with
Vitamin D to help individuals meet their daily requirements.2 Incorporating these Vitamin
D-rich foods into your diet during the winter months is an effective strategy to support
your health.
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