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SearchIn the winter, many of us fall short on vitamin D without even realizing it. A doctor breaks down why that matters as well as ways to get enough of the sunshine vitamin this time of year.
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CLEVELAND - Our main source of vitamin D is sunlight, and in the winter, that can be tough to come by.
So, what happens if we’re not getting enough of the so-called sunshine vitamin?
“You may not always notice the effects of a vitamin D deficiency because it may present in a very non-specific manner, such as mood changes, fatigue or bone pain,” explained Neha Vyas, MD, a family medicine physician at Cleveland Clinic. “However, not getting enough vitamin D can be very serious, leading to fractures and general ill health.”
Dr. Vyas said vitamin D is important because it helps our body absorb calcium, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth.
It also supports the immune system and helps regulate mood.
This winter, Dr. Vyas recommends going outside on warmer days when the sun’s out.
You can also get vitamin D from foods like fatty fish, egg yolks, mushrooms – as well as fortified foods such as milk and yogurt.
At the end of the day, Dr. Vyas said checking in with your doctor is the best way to make sure you’re getting enough of the sunshine vitamin.
“A blood test can measure your vitamin D levels and show whether you're sufficient, insufficient or deficient when it comes to vitamin D,” she said.
If you’re not getting enough vitamin D, Dr. Vyas said a supplement may be recommended.
