I’m a lifelong southern Mainer; people always talk up vitamin C but it’s only ever given me an upset stomach. Vitamin D is where it’s at. I take a couple every day and a couple extra if I feel like I’m coming down with something. I used to have what felt like seasonal depression but I don’t anymore.

Your body produces vitamin D, but only through sun exposure. I can't cite the source, but I've read that anywhere north of Atlanta and the sun angle and duration aren't sufficient for humans to produce the needed vitamin D in winter months. We are very far north of Atlanta...

I was diagnosed with a vitamin D deficiency a few years back after complaining at my annual check up about feeling low energy and fuzzy headed. It took a few weeks, but after vitamin D supplements I started feeling much better and clearer headed. Since then I supplement every fall through spring (as a runner, I get plenty of sun in the summer)

Yes! I start taking vitamin D late September, I think it’s worth it for sure

Vitamin D helps your body use Calcium (basically doubles the amount you can absorb). Your body produces it by exposure to sunlight, thus the recommendation in the winter months.

Vitamin C helps you to avoid scurvy.

It's great advice and really important. Vitamin D isn't a typical vitamin we get from eating. It's more like a hormone our body creates when exposed to the sun. Supplementation is probably necessary for most of us in Maine, but especially if you have much melanin in your skin.

Yes, really important. It makes a big difference. Two things about Vitamin D: If you can go the extra mile, get a blood test to check your (pre- supplement) Vit D level. Then start with a daily 1,000-2,000 dose.

DON’T take Vit D at night. It messes with your sleep.