Fighting Back the Winter Blues

The winter blues are a real thing, as you may recall from our recent post on Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). While there’s a myriad of reasons the colder months can take a toll, there’s a specific factor we wanted to focus on this Wellness Wednesday: light, or rather, the lack of it thanks to shorter days. While we can’t make the world spin faster, ensuring you get enough vitamin D a day can absolutely make a difference…here’s how!

1. Vitamin D Supports Mood & Mental Health

Vitamin D plays a role in regulating serotonin, a neurotransmitter tied closely to mood. Low vitamin D levels have been linked to increased risk of depression, especially during winter when sunlight exposure drops.

Source: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder

2. Sunlight Helps Regulate Your Internal Clock

Natural light helps maintain a healthy circadian rhythm, which affects sleep, energy, and emotional regulation. Less daylight can disrupt this rhythm, leading to fatigue, low motivation, and mood changes.

Source: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/circadian-rhythm/light-and-sleep

3. Vitamin D Supports Brain andBody Health

Beyond mood, vitamin D is essential for bone health, immune function, and reducing inflammation, all of which can indirectly impact mental well-being and resilience during colder months.

Source: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-Consumer/

4. Winter = Higher Risk of Deficiency

Because the sun sits lower in the sky during winter, our bodies produce far less vitamin D, even on sunny days. Many people don’t realize they’re deficient, which can quietly contribute to low energy and mood.

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/infantandtoddlernutrition/vitamins-minerals/vitamin-d.html

How to Get More Vitamin D This Winter

• Get outside when you can: Even 15–30 minutes of midday light helps.
• Eat vitamin D–rich foods: Fatty fish, egg yolks, fortified milk or cereals.
• Talk to a provider about supplements: Especially if you experience winter mood changes.
• Pair light with movement: A short walk outside boosts both sunlight exposure and mental health.

We’re curious to hear what helps you pass the snowy season. Drop your answer in the comments below!