Did you know that Vitamin D isn’t actually a vitamin? Chemically, it’s more closely related to a steroid hormone — a little twist that might surprise you! But now that the elephant in the room has been unveiled, let’s explore why it matters for your energy and wellbeing.

The most common sign of low Vitamin D? Fatigue and low energy. This makes sense when you consider its role in homeostasis — the behind-the-scenes systems that keep your body balanced and functioning. Your endocrine system (hormone-related organs) and nervous system are the main players here, and Vitamin D is a key contributor.

Here’s the tricky part: only about 10-15% of your daily Vitamin D comes from food. It helps your body absorb calcium, supports muscle strength, and contributes to overall function. The rest? Sunlight. And in the Northern Hemisphere, from September to April, sunlight simply isn’t strong enough for most of us. That’s when supplementation is worth considering.

The ideal natural dose? Around 20 minutes in the sun when your shadow is shorter than you, with at least 20% of your skin exposed — no sunblock. It’s easy to see why, as the days shorten, our energy levels and focus start to fade.

Another twist: Vitamin D can hide in body fat, making it less available to your body even if you’re consuming enough. This hidden factor explains why some people can still feel sluggish despite their best efforts.

And here’s another reason to stay topped up — Vitamin D supports your immune system, helping your body fight off seasonal colds and infections. During the winter months, a little extra help through diet or supplements can make all the difference.

At Greenacres Health, we encourage checking your Vitamin D levels and keeping them balanced — for stronger immunity, steady energy, and year-round wellbeing.