As summer unfolds with its sunny days and vibrant energy, it's the perfect time to focus on the vitamins and supplements that can help us feel our best selves. Ensuring your body gets the right nutrients is key to a healthy summer.
During summer, our skin can produce Vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. This vitamin is essential for maintaining healthy bones[1] and a strong immune system[2]. However, even in the sunny weather, factors like sun cream, clothing, and skin type can limit our Vitamin D production. A Vitamin D supplement can help bridge this gap, ensuring we reap all its benefits without risking sunburn.
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that supports our immune system and helps our skin heal and stay youthful. It’s also essential for collagen production[3], which keeps our skin firm and resilient. Including a Vitamin C supplement in your routine can enhance your natural glow.
B-vitamins, particularly B6, B12, and folate play a crucial role in energy production, which is especially important during the active summer months. B12 is often found in animal products, so those on a plant-based diet might need a supplement to ensure they get enough[4]. B-vitamins help convert the food we eat into energy.
Summer often means travel, changes in routine, and sometimes having junk food. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support our digestive health, ensuring our gut remains balanced and healthy. A happy gut means better digestion, a stronger immune system[5], and even improved mood.
As we embrace the summer, it’s important to remember that our bodies need the right nutrients to keep up with the season’s demands. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains is the foundation of good health, but sometimes we need a little extra support.
Consider these essential vitamins and supplements. They’ll help you stay energized, healthy, and glowing, ensuring you make the most of this vibrant season.
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[1] This content was created by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
(NIAMS) with contributions from: National Institute on Aging
[2] Think of the vibrant oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers that peak during this season. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that supports our immune system and helps our skin heal and stay youthful. It’s also vital for collagen production, which keeps our skin firm and resilient—perfect for looking our best in those summer dresses and swimsuits. Including a Vitamin C supplement in your routine can enhance your natural glow and boost your overall health.
[3] Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM. The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health. Nutrients. 2017 Aug 12;9(8):866. doi: 10.3390/nu9080866. PMID: 28805671; PMCID: PMC5579659.
[4] The Vegan Society https://www.vegansociety.com/resources/nutrition-and-health/nutrients/vitamin-b12/what-every-vegan-should-know-about-vitamin-b12
[5] Amara AA, Shibl A. Role of Probiotics in health improvement, infection control and disease treatment and management. Saudi Pharm J. 2015 Apr;23(2):107-14. doi: 10.1016/j.jsps.2013.07.001. Epub 2013 Jul 18. PMID: 25972729; PMCID: PMC4421088.
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