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Winter Sleep Woes? You Might Lack Vitamin D
6 Dec
Summary
- Over a third of adults in the US have insufficient Vitamin D levels.
- Vitamin D regulates sleep by aiding serotonin and melatonin production.
- Low Vitamin D can cause fatigue, low mood, and insomnia-like symptoms.
As winter confines many indoors, a critical nutrient for sleep, Vitamin D, becomes scarce. Over a third of American adults struggle with insufficient levels, significantly affecting their sleep patterns. This deficiency disrupts the body's internal clock, which governs wakefulness and sleepiness, by hindering the production of vital hormones like serotonin and melatonin.
The consequences of low Vitamin D can manifest in various ways, including persistent fatigue, a low mood, and symptoms resembling insomnia. Individuals may find themselves struggling to initiate or maintain sleep, leading to fragmented and unrefreshing rest. This disruption to the circadian rhythm is a common issue during darker months.
To combat this, healthcare professionals often recommend daily Vitamin D supplements between October and March. Incorporating vitamin D-rich foods and seeking daylight when possible can also help, though dietary sources alone are frequently insufficient during winter. Consulting a doctor is advised for personalized dosage or if underlying health conditions exist.
