The days are getting shorter as we step on towards Winter. Surprisingly, many people struggle with symptoms like fatigue and mild depression in the winter, yet few realise that the reason for their problems might be vitamin deficiency. In a series of blogs I am going to look at the most common vitamin deficiencies and which foods and supplements to consume to counteract these deficiencies.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C has long been known to contribute to normal functioning of the immune system. It is therefore no wonder that many people rely on the power of vitamin C, especially in the winter months when the cold season hits. 

The skin benefits from vitamin C as well. When it gets colder, our skin and hair suffer. Usually this shows as dryness of skin or extra sensitivity. Look out for vitamin C-charged skincare products to give your skin the support it needs. 

Tip: In nature, vitamin C is found in particularly high concentrations in acerola cherries or rose hips, but also in vegetables such as peppers, cabbage and parsley.

Zinc

Zinc is widely recognised as being one of the most essential minerals known to man. It's involved in numerous important bodily processes, supporting normal macronutrient metabolism, immune function, and the maintenance of normal hair, nails, and skin - exactly what you need during winter. 

What are the best sources of zinc? The best source of zinc is oysters, but it's also plentiful in red meat and poultry. Other good sources are beans, nuts, crab, lobster, whole grains, breakfast cereals, and dairy products.

Solgar® Zinc Citrate 30 mg Vegetable Capsules provides premium quality zinc in a highly absorbable form. A key nutrient, zinc is an essential trace mineral and is vital for many functions in the body. It promotes healthy skin, hair and nails and exerts antioxidant activity, which helps fight free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage the cells in your body and are associated with premature aging. Zinc also contributes to a healthy immune system and has properties that are useful for energy support, fertility and male health.

Solgar® Zinc Citrate 30 mg Vegetable Capsules is available in a citrate form; a highly absorbable form of minerals compared to the more commonly available oxides and is therefore ideal for those with digestive issues.

The 1 a day dosage of Solgar® Zinc Citrate 30 mg Vegetable Capsules will contribute to normal:

• Hair, skin and nails maintenance

• Carbohydrate metabolism

• Cognitive function

• Fertility and reproduction

• Metabolism of vitamin A

• Testosterone levels in the blood

• Vision function

• Immune system function

• Maintenance of normal bones

• Protection of cells from oxidative stress

Check out the Vitalis Health shop online at https://vitalishealth.co.uk/health-shop-vitalis/ or in person at our Howard Street clinic to purchase a range of vitamin supplements.

If you are concerned you might be deficient in Vitamin C or in zinc then why not book a private blood test at Vitalis Health? Our health clinician Tina is highly experienced in administering blood tests. You will receive your results via secure confidential email. The doctor with follow up and phone you directly to analyse results if there is anything of concern. https://vitalishealth.co.uk/private-blood-tests