Among all nutrients, vitamins allow your body to function naturally while protecting it from threats such as infection. It would help if you get your nutrients from the meals you eat in an ideal world. However, no one is perfect. This is where supplements come in handy. We’ve put together a list of vitamins that can help you stay healthy this winter. Vitamins D, C, A, E and B12 are necessary to maintain the health of the immune system and prevent dry skin. These winter vitamins also improve your mood swings.
Vitamins that you should take in winter
Vitamin D
Most of us become deficient in vitamin D during the winter because we get it from sunlight, which is much more difficult in the colder months. But if we don’t have it, our health will suffer. Vitamin D helps with the absorption and metabolism of vital minerals, proper cell formation, and immune system regulation, all of which are important for disease prevention and basic life activities. Get outside for at least 15 minutes in the midday sun whenever possible. Vitamin D is also found in butter, milk, eggs, mushrooms, cod liver oil, and fatty fish.
Vitamin C
It is nature’s immune booster and may be found in a variety of seasonal vegetables and fruits such as carrots and beets. Vitamin C is essential to prevent colds, coughs and other seasonal diseases. It can be found in a variety of citrus fruits, including oranges and lemons. The level of vitamin C in the body can be increased by drinking a glass of warm water with lemon juice. Vitamin C is essential for protein metabolism and helps produce antibodies that protect against infection. This vitamin stimulates the production of collagen, which is necessary for the formation of connective tissues – this water-soluble vitamin, commonly known as ascorbic acid.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin (retinol). Most people know that it is good for their eyesight, but getting adequate amounts of this vitamin during the winter months is also essential. Vitamin A deficiency is associated with a weakened immune system and increased risk of infection. The human body can make vitamin A alone from beta-carotene. This vitamin is an antioxidant that contributes to the health of bones, teeth and soft tissues. It also maintains the health of the immune system by maintaining the body’s natural defenses. Foods rich in vitamin A include spinach, apricots, and sweet potatoes.
Vitamin E
This vitamin is necessary to keep the skin and hair moist in the winter season. Cold weather can make your scalp dull and dry, which you can combat by taking vitamin E supplements and eating foods like peanuts, broccoli, sunflower seeds, and cashews.
Vitamin E
Vitamin B
B vitamins undoubtedly fall into that special category by maintaining cellular health and making you feel active. B vitamins come in different forms, each with its own benefits. B-12 helps regulate your nervous system, while B-6 helps turn food into energy. B-1 and B-2 not only convert food into energy, but also have neurological benefits and help you see well. B-12 is essential during the winter months because it can improve your mood and give you more energy. Whole grains, red meat, lentils and leafy greens can help you get your winter dose. Vitamins are essential components for overall health and wellness year-round, not just in the winter. Supplements can help maintain a strong immune system, stay warm, and fight the winter blues. Vitamins should be obtained through a healthy diet and supplements should complement that diet. Discuss any deficiency you may have experienced with your doctor and determine the best dosage.
