How do I stay healthy this winter? The proven benefits of taking a daily vitamin D supplement

This week, we’re talking Vitamin D (Calciferol). The beloved Sunshine Vitamin is one of the most important nutrients our bodies need for the upcoming winter season to stay fit, healthy and to ward off viruses.

We’ve included Vitamin D in our Wellness Hemp Seed Capsules and Immune-boosting CBD Capsules – let’s explore why we need to be taking it daily, especially when we aren't getting a daily dose of sunshine and its proven benefits.

Why is vitamin D important?

Vitamin D is both a hormone we eat as well as one our body naturally generates. It does a lot of things to keep our bodies healthy. One of the most important aspects of this key nutrient is that it helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate we have in (and the amount that's absorbed by) the body.

We need these nutrients to keep our bones, teeth and muscles healthy, and much more. In fact, the benefits of vitamin D are so important that all adults should be taking it as a supplement for at least six months of the year - if not more in the UK.

What is a good source of vitamin D?

The body creates vitamin D from direct sunlight on the skin when outdoors. So, from spring to autumn, most people should be able to get all the vitamin D they need from sunlight.

Alternative sources include:

Oily fish – such as salmon & mackerel
Red meat
Liver
Egg yolks

Alternatively, vitamin D tablets are an easy way to incorporate more of this essential nutrient into your diet.

How much vitamin D do I need to take?

You should take 10 micrograms (400 IU) of vitamin D a day between October and early March. However, for best results you can take this as a supplement all year round with just two to three capsules per day.

Why do I need to take vitamin D supplements during winter?

In times of low sunshine, such as between October and early March, we do not get enough vitamin D naturally from sunlight. This is when it's vital to supplement your nutrient levels by taking a high quality vitamin D capsule.

As the winter season also comes along with cold and flu season, our bodies also need to be at their best to fight off infection. Consuming more vitamin D in winter will help your body ward off inflammation all year round, especially when you need it most.

Why is vitamin D important during lockdown?

Due to the pandemic, more people are spending time indoors, therefore reducing their vitamin D intake even on days when it is sunnier.

As a result, 2.5 million vulnerable people in England will be encouraged to take Vitamin D supplements to stay healthy this winter.

What happens when your vitamin D level is low?

People who live in northern latitudes or areas of high pollution, those who work night shifts, or are bound to their homes for whatever reason should aim to consume more vitamin D from food sources or supplements to avoid deficiency.

How can I increase my vitamin D level?

The easiest way to increase your intake of vitamin D is by taking a daily supplement as part of your everyday routine.

Now, if you're wondering 'What is the best vitamin D supplement?' we have you covered. You can discover the benefits of Vitamin D in our Hemp Seed Wellness Supplements or our Immune CBD Capsules – the perfect starting point for those who are CBD curious.

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