Autumn is around the corner with the autumn equinox on Saturday 23rd September 2023. Now is a good time to start thinking about Vitamin D, eating more foods that contain it or ideally taking a supplement now that the days are much sorter. Maintaining good levels of vitamin D can help to prevent the onset of seasonal affective disorder (SAD.)

Symptoms of SAD include low mood, irritability, and a lack of interest in life. This is usually due to a reduction in sunlight, which effects vitamin D levels, during the shorter autumn, and winter days.

Vitamin D is an essential, fat-soluble nutrient that helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body, which keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy. It promotes cell growth and plays a roll in the immune system, benefitting immune function. Low levels have also been linked to play a role in depression.

Vitamin D is best absorbed through the skin during sun exposure in the summer months, adding Vitamin D rich foods are another way to help increase levels however not many foods are naturally rich in Vitamin D and you are advised to take a supplement to get that advised recommended daily allowance we need.

Foods that contain Vitamin D are oily fish, including salmon and mackerel, tuna, eggs, red meat, mushrooms, and fortified foods including cereals and dairy produce.