According to CAM, the Canadian Mental Health Association about 15% of Canadians suffer from the winter blues and about 2 to 3% actually have seasonal affective disorder.
But remember those stats only reflect the people who are seeking medical help for their mood. Meaning, the prevalence could be much higher than 15% of people feel low over the winter season or when it’s cloudy outside.
Why do people get the winter blues?
It has a lot to do with vitamin D status. That’s why vitamin D is ofen nicknamed “the sunshine vitamin”.
What does vitamin D do?
Vitamin D directly affects mood, particular in terms of improving low mood. Our immune system needs vitamin D to reduce autoimmune risk as well as keep white blood cells healthy to fight any colds or flus. Vitamin D reduces cancer and cardiovascular disease risk too. As well as improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation such as with people with diabetes.
Is vitamin D important for bones?
Vitamin D plays a major role in bone health directly and by modulating calcium and magnesium. And yet 40% of the Canadian population fails the minimum amount of vitamin D needed to support healthy bones.
How are vitamin D and breast cancer risk related?
Maintaining a healthy level of vitamin D reduces the risk of breast cancer.
Does vitamin D affect sports performance?
Yes. Fast twitch muscle fibers perform with adequate body vitamin D. You want to run fast? Do you want to move fast? Vitamin D is part of that process.
Can a blood test check for vitamin D status?
Have your blood levels of vitamin D checked and look for a minimum of 50 nanomoles per liter. If you’re below 50nmol/L then you’re considered to be at risk for bone issues. Heads up 40% of the Canadian population has these low levels in winter.
Do I need vitamin D in the summer?
In the summer when we're staring at the sun, when we're supposed to be outside, when the sun's rays are at their peak. About 25% of Canadians have insufficient levels of vitamin D in the summer.
How to get more vitamin D?
Go outside in daytime. Even a cloudy day helps. Get your vitamin D blood levels tested so you can have an informed decision with your healthcare provider about if a vitamin D supplement would be needed for you.
Should I take a vitamin D supplement?
Have your blood levels checked. Don’t just take any amount since your body doesn’t just pee it out. It can cause major kidney and bone problems as well as dizziness, vomiting, nausea. Get tested and talk to a healthcare provider.
Don’t be fooled by the name “vitamin D” since it behave a lot like a hormone and can have huge impacts on your health. Get your levels checked annually in the fall so you and your healthcare provider can dose appropriately if needed.
References
Dr. Andrea Proulx, ND — helping female athletes crush fatigue, fix their hormones, and finally perform like the athlete they know they are. Read full bio