🌤️ Why You Should Take Vitamin D as Winter Sets In
(and how it supports your Pilates and wellbeing)
As the days get shorter and the light fades, many of us notice a dip in mood, energy and motivation. While cosy evenings and hot drinks are lovely, the lack of sunlight can also affect our health — particularly our vitamin D levels. This important nutrient supports bone and muscle health, energy levels, and even immunity.
In this post, we’ll explore why vitamin D matters most in winter, what the NHS recommends, and how it ties in beautifully with your Pilates practice.
☀️ What Vitamin D Does
Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium and phosphate — minerals essential for strong bones, healthy muscles, and teeth. Without enough of it, you may notice tiredness, weaker muscles, or slower recovery.
🍂 Why It’s Harder to Get Enough in Winter
From October to March, sunlight in the UK isn’t strong enough for our skin to make vitamin D.
Food sources like oily fish, eggs, and fortified cereals provide small amounts, but not usually enough on their own.
That’s why the NHS recommends everyone consider taking a daily supplement of 10 micrograms (400 IU) of vitamin D through the autumn and winter months.
💊 Who Might Need It All Year Round
You may need a supplement year-round if you:
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Spend most of your time indoors
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Cover most of your skin outdoors
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Have darker skin (African, African-Caribbean, or South Asian heritage)
If you’re unsure, your GP or pharmacist can advise on what’s best for you.