Three ways to boost your energy this winter

If the only thing seemingly not running on empty this winter is your nose, then welcome aboard! An alarming nine out of 10 Brits could be suffering from a lack of the all-vital vitamin D, according to a recent survey. In the summer months, your body uses the sun’s rays as the key source of this vitamin, but in the gloomier months of winter, your body finds it much harder to obtain. Why is it so important? Low vitamin D levels have been linked to fatigue, osteoporosis, diabetes and even high blood pressure.

If you’re worried about missing out on your daily dose of D during the dark, colder days, try these instead:

1 ‘Omega-3 fatty fish can be a good source of vitamin D; common options include salmon, mackerel and tuna,’ says nutritionist Nigel Denby. To kick you off with some recipe inspiration, try this quick and easy ultimate pan fried salmon or, if you’re craving something a little more adventurous, this citrus spiced salmon is sure to pack a palatable punch. If you’re pregnant, remember that you should eat no more than two portions of oily fish a week.

2 ‘Fortified spreads [such as types of margarine] are another good source,’ adds Denby – and oh-so-easy to slick onto bread to accompany your soup or a morning slice of toast. But make sure you incorporate these as a part of a healthy, balanced diet.

3 While you can’t count on the seeing much of the sun every day, you can count on a supplement. Bear in mind, however, that the current recommended daily intake for vitamin D for adults is 400IU, says Denby – so always read the label and make sure you don’t get carried away**!

Do you have any other tips for keeping your energy levels boosted over winter? Tweet and let us know @healthymag.

*Survey conducted by BetterYou
**If you are pregnant, breast-feeding or under medical supervision, consult your doctor before taking supplements.

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Article Name

Three ways to boost your energy this winter

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Chase away the winter blues and up your energy levels with our three great sun-free tips

Author

Hannah Allden

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Healthy

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