Most of us have heard that we get Vitamin D from sunlight. Now that it is winter and there is rain and snow all over our country, there is a chance of us becoming Vitamin D deficient. Vitamin D deficiency has often been linked to feelings of depression and low energy. But did you know that Vitamin D deficiency can also cause the accumulation of belly fat?
One of the important roles of Vitamin D is to help maintain healthy levels of phosphorus and calcium in our blood. When those levels are thrown off by a lack of Vitamin D, one of the side effects is the creation of belly fat.
A study was done in the Netherlands where there was a strong link between obesity and a lack of sunlight exposure.
For us, it means that we need to take advantage of the sun when it comes out in the winter. If it’s too cold to go outside, do some sunbathing next to a window in your house. If it is warm enough, then be sure to get outside with as much of your skin exposed as possible.
If it’s just too hard for you to get exposure to sunlight in the winter, then you can always take a Vitamin D supplement. You can find Vitamin D supplements just about anywhere including your local grocery store and online websites like Amazon.
Previously, we wrote about how winter time can dry out our bodies and accelerate dehydration. Dehydration has also been linked to weight gain. So during the holiday season, when it’s tempting to eat a lot of junk food, you have to be especially careful. Mother nature is working against you! Lack of Vitamin D, lack of water, plus junk food can lead to quick and unhealthy weight gain.
So, do yourself a favor and try to get some sun this winter time. Also, drink lots of water and be mindful of what you eat. Wintertime can be a challenge especially with Vitamin D deficiency, but if you’re careful, you can emerge healthy and strong and ready for spring!
