11/19/2025
During the fall and winter months, especially when the days become shorter due to daylight savings time, you may note some tiredness due to vitamin D deficiency.
Vitamin D
How vitamin D is made and its benefits:
Production: Your body makes vitamin D when ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from the sun hit your skin. Factors like time of day, season, latitude, skin color, and sunscreen use all affect how much is produced.
Bone health: Vitamin D is critical for absorbing calcium, which helps build and maintain strong bones. Without enough vitamin D, you are at a higher risk for conditions like osteoporosis (weak, brittle bones).
Other benefits: Vitamin D also plays a role in muscle movement, nerve function, and supporting the immune system to fight off infections.
How to get enough vitamin D
Sunlight: Aim for 5 to 30 minutes of sun exposure on your arms, hands, and legs at least twice a week, preferably between 10 am and 4 pm. Remember that while sunlight is good for vitamin D production, it's important to protect your skin from sun damage and skin cancer.
Food: Incorporate vitamin D-rich or fortified foods into your diet:
Fatty fish (like salmon, mackerel, and sardines)
Fortified milk, yogurt, and orange juice
Mushrooms
Egg yolks
Supplements: If you have limited sun exposure, talk to your doctor about whether a vitamin D supplement is right for you.
Call us at Collierville Family Health 901-221-8983