As the weather turns colder and the sun takes on a different persona, our vitamin needs change in order to adapt to the different environment around us. Shorter days mean less sunlight as well as the temptation to stay inside in the warmth.
So, what vitamins should we be looking to include in our diet or to supplement with a vitamin tablet?
It seems obvious but Vitamin D is derived directly from sunlight, so our levels are diminished in autumn and winter. Vitamin D has been much talked about in connection with Covid-19 as a boost to the immune system, but it is also essential for good bone health. It can be found naturally in food products such as oily fish as well as being added to some margarines and breakfast cereals, but for adequate absorption, taking a vitamin D supplement from October through to March is a wise move.
As winter is the season of respiratory illnesses in general and with a harsh season of not only coronavirus but flu and nasty colds predicted, taking Vitamin A is another good choice. Vitamin A helps the body to fight against infections and illnesses and keeps the skin and even the lining of the nose healthy. Unlike Vitamin D, Vitamin A can be found in more generalised food types such as cheese, eggs and milk. It is also commonly found in yellow vegetables such as carrots and peppers as well as fruits such as mango and apricots.
Vitamin C helps with not only wound healing but also helps keep the blood vessels healthy. Often taken as a supplement in the belief it can help fend off colds, it is found naturally in oranges and natural orange juices, strawberries and blackcurrants as well as broccoli and potatoes. Try blending your own smoothie using fresh fruit or make a warming winter soup with broccoli and potatoes and the addition of cheese.