Free Shipping Available on Backpacks

-- Days
-- Hrs
-- Mins
-- Secs

By Moz Neumann

As the winter chill sets in, there’s one health essential we often overlook...

Vitamin D!

Known as the "sunshine vitamin," vitamin D is vital for overall well-being, yet many people experience symptoms of deficiency—especially during the colder months. The good news? It’s an easy fix!

Why Vitamin D Matters

Vitamin D acts like a hormone, supporting key processes in your body. Here’s why it’s crucial.

Strong Bones and Calcium Absorption

One of its most well-known functions is regulating calcium absorption and maintaining strong, healthy bones. Without sufficient vitamin D, the body struggles to absorb calcium efficiently, potentially leading to brittle bones and conditions like osteoporosis.

Beyond Bone Health

The benefits of vitamin D extend far beyond bone health:

  • Boosted Immunity: Regulates immune function to fight off infections.
  • Improved Mood: Low levels are linked to depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
  • Heart & Hormone Health: May reduce cardiovascular risks and supports testosterone production.

Winter Challenges in the UK

For those of us in the UK, the limited sunlight during autumn and winter leads to a decline in natural vitamin D synthesis.

Our skin produces vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, specifically ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Unfortunately, during the colder months, the angle of the sun prevents UVB rays from providing enough exposure, especially in higher latitudes like the UK.

To make matters worse, dietary sources of vitamin D are quite limited, making deficiency more likely.

Easy Ways to Top Up

1. Get Outside

Spend 10–15 minutes outside during the brightest part of the day. Make this the time of day you get out and take a walk.

2. Eat Vitamin D-Rich Foods

Add vitamin D-rich foods like salmon and mackerel to your diet. As a nation, most people don’t eat enough oily fish.

3. Use Supplements

A quality vitamin D and probiotic supplement can provide a simple boost too.


Final Thoughts

Winter doesn’t have to leave you feeling low and depleted. Prioritizing your vitamin D intake can improve your mood, strengthen your body, and help you feel your best even on the chilliest days.

Latest Stories

View all

#WOTW: Jonny Pain Series

#WOTW: Jonny Pain Series

Hybrid Athlete Training Plan – Sample Hyrox Workouts Below are three sample training days taken from a 6-day-per-week Hybrid training program. Feel free to try them, but remember—these workouts are best experienced as part of a progressive program. Day 1...

Read more

Who's Really Hybrid?

Who's Really Hybrid?

By Jonny Pain And so we arrive at my final article of this series for Built For Athletes. My goal with these pieces has been to provoke some thought around how we perceive ourselves and how we perceive training, often presented...

Read more

Succeeding Beyond January

Succeeding Beyond January

We’ve officially powered through January, the month of fresh starts, big resolutions, and renewed motivation. But as the novelty of the new year fades, many of us start to notice that life is creeping back into its usual routine—and with...

Read more