Why Vitamin D Levels Drop in Fall and Winter and How to Boost Them

While most people associate fall with cozy sweaters, comforting meals, colorful leaves, and all things pumpkin, doctors know that this is also the time of year when Vitamin D levels tend to drop. It can be challenging to get enough vitamin D once the days get shorter and you naturally start spending less time outside as the temperatures plummet. Here is a look at this nutrient and how you can ensure that you are meeting your daily recommended intake.

Everything You Need to Know About Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient and hormone that is primarily obtained through exposure to the sun. As such, it makes sense that this is the time of year when people struggle to get enough of this crucial vitamin. While vitamin D is not found as readily in foods like some of its counterparts, you can still meet this requirement through proper diet and supplementation.

Why is vitamin D so important? This vitamin is distinguished by its benefits to bone health, helping the body to absorb dietary calcium and phosphorus. Both of these minerals support healthy bones, lowering the risk of fractures. Without proper vitamin D intake, the minerals are not able to do their job.

Beyond bone health, vitamin D also helps to regulate hormones, decrease inflammation in the cells, and boost immune function. Low levels of this vitamin are also linked to mood dips, especially during the long and dark winter months.