We have already heard about the benefits of good gut health in respect of staying healthy and fit for the winter season. Here is the second measure that Louise O’Driscoll, Xen-Do’s affiliated Holistic Health Coach suggests we take.

Sunshine and Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for our wellbeing in a multitude of ways. Our bodies produce it when we are exposed to sunlight, but due to the general lack of sunshine in the UK and also our judicious use of sunscreen when we do get some good weather, most of us are deficient in Vitamin D.

The vitamin helps with bone health and calcium absorption and a lack of it can lead to a weakened immune system, depression, affect blood pressure and cholesterol levels and your chances of developing type 2 diabetes. Studies have even shown a link between obesity and low levels of vitamin D.

There are a few foods that contain vitamin D, such as oily fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), cheese and egg yolks, but these rarely provide us with sufficient quantities and our bodies cannot store vitamin D for gradual use.

We should all – adults and children – therefore be taking a daily vitamin D3 (1000 IU, or more if you know you are deficient) supplement from around September until April and when the sun does appear, be sure to get out in it for at least 10-15 minutes a day. Good for health and mood.

If you think you suffer with SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), really feeling persistently tired and low during the winter months, consider getting a light box for daily light therapy.

This article is based on opinion:
– the author is not a qualified doctor or anyone who can dispense medical advice.
– any opinions stated are just that and people should consult a doctor before making any dietary changes or changes of any nature prompted by the articles published by or on behalf of Xen-Do.
– under 16’s please obtain parental permission before posting anything online.
– any opinions stated are that of the author and do not represent the opinions of Xen-Do.