The Seasonal Energy Hack You Didn’t Know You Needed
How vitamin D helps beat the slump when days get shorter
One minute you’re soaking up sunshine, the next you’re digging out sweaters, comfort food recipes, and wondering how it’s suddenly dark before dinner. Along with the cozy vibes, a lot of us also notice our energy dip this time of year.
And no, it’s not just because we’ve rediscovered hot chocolate and carb-loading.
The truth is, our bodies run on sunlight more than we think. When daylight hours shorten, our natural vitamin D production drops. That can leave us feeling more sluggish, moody, and less resilient against the bugs that always seem to pop up when the weather turns.
Why Vitamin D Matters (Beyond Bones)
Vitamin D often gets a reputation as “the bone vitamin.” And yep, it helps us absorb calcium and keep our skeletons strong, but it’s also helping out other areas you might not expect.
Here’s what it supports:
- Immunity: Helping your body fight off seasonal sniffles.
- Energy & mood: Low levels are linked to fatigue and low mood, and in some cases even Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
- Muscle function: Whether it’s your workout or just hauling groceries, vitamin D plays a role.
A 2017 study found that people with low vitamin D reported higher levels of fatigue and supplementation significantly improved their energy. So topping up your vitamin D really could make the darker months feel a little brighter.
Why Levels Drop When the Days Get Shorter
Unless you’re eating a lot of oily fish and eggs every day, food alone doesn’t usually cover it when it comes to hitting the recommended levels.
And sunlight - our main source - becomes harder to rely on once the seasons shift. Depending on where you live, the sun may not be strong enough for your skin to produce much vitamin D during fall and winter. Which means even if you’re outside regularly, your body might still struggle to make enough.
Supplements Without the Snooze Factor
This is where supplementation comes in and we’re not talking capsules (they’re so last year). Liposomal vitamin D is designed to be more absorbable than your standard capsule or tablet. Think of it like heading straight to the express lane; your body can actually use more of what you’re giving it.
It’s not about taking “extra” stuff, it’s about making what you do take actually count.
Everyday Ways to Support Your Levels
Here are a few practical (and realistic) ways to keep vitamin D working for you as the seasons change:
- Catch natural light when you can: Even cloudy days help regulate your body clock and support mood.
- Eat vitamin D-rich foods: Salmon, egg yolks, mushrooms, and fortified products add up.
- Keep moving: Exercise helps boost circulation and energy, and combined with healthy vitamin D levels, it’s a win-win.
- Add a supplement if needed: Especially the liposomal form if you want better absorption. Liposomal vitamin D+K2 is the ultimate combo to go for - the D3 helps you absorb calcium, the K2 makes sure it lands in the right place.
A Seasonal Reset, Not a Magic Bullet
Let’s be clear: vitamin D isn’t going to transform you into a superhuman overnight or stop it from getting dark far too early. But it can support your immune system, mood, and energy, helping you get through the season with a little more ease and a lot more fun.
So if you’ve been feeling the seasonal slump, it might not just be the weather. It could be your body quietly asking for a little more sunshine in your routine.