The Importance of Vitamin D During Winter

As the days grow shorter and the sun seems to hide behind Portland’s winter clouds, it’s easy to overlook how much this change impacts our health. One essential nutrient many people miss out on during these darker months is vitamin D—sometimes called the “sunshine vitamin.”

At our senior living Portland community, we see how important this vitamin is for staying healthy and energetic during the winter. Vitamin D isn’t just good for your bones; it supports your immune system, mood, and even muscle strength. For seniors especially, maintaining adequate levels can make a huge difference in overall well-being.

Why Winter Affects Vitamin D Levels

Vitamin D is unique because your body produces it when your skin is exposed to sunlight. During the winter, when the sun is less intense and we spend more time indoors, it’s easy to fall short. This can lead to fatigue, aches, and even a higher risk of illnesses like colds or the flu.

Marilyn, from retirement home in Portland, used to call winter her “hibernation season” because she felt sluggish and low on energy every year. Once she started taking a vitamin D supplement, she noticed a big improvement. “I feel like I’m more myself again,” she shared.

Simple Ways to Boost Vitamin D During Winter

If you’re feeling the effects of a lack of sunlight, there are a few easy steps you can take:

Get outside when you can

Even on cloudy days, spending a little time outdoors can help your body produce vitamin D. A brisk walk or sitting by the window during a sunny moment can make a difference.

Incorporate vitamin D-rich foods

Foods like salmon, eggs, and fortified milk or orange juice are excellent sources of vitamin D.

Consider a supplement

Many seniors find it helpful to take a daily vitamin D supplement during the winter. Speak with your doctor to determine the right dosage for you.

Use a light therapy lamp

These lamps mimic natural sunlight and can be a great way to boost your mood and vitamin D levels during gloomy months.

The Benefits of Staying on Top of Vitamin D

Adequate vitamin D levels don’t just keep your bones strong—they also reduce the risk of falls by improving balance and muscle strength. And for those who feel the emotional effects of long, gray winters, vitamin D plays a role in mood regulation, helping to ward off feelings of sadness or seasonal blues.

In our assisted living Portland community, we make sure to include vitamin D-rich foods in our meals, from hearty salmon fillets to scrambled eggs for breakfast. We also encourage residents to spend time in our garden areas or take short walks when weather permits—it’s good for the body and the spirit.

Winter may be a bit darker, but with small steps to boost your vitamin D, it doesn’t have to dim your health or happiness. So, grab that extra glass of fortified orange juice, step outside for a few minutes, and let your body soak up the benefits of this essential nutrient.