All the vitamins you need to help you through the winter months

With the darker mornings and colder evenings still very much a staple of our life, it’s no surprise that these dull months can take a toll on women’s health.

As we come down from the buzz of Christmas and try to settle back into a routine, it’s no wonder our energy levels are lower, our immune systems are a little weaker, and our mood swings, well, they are in full swing. However, to help us return to our full health and be ready to tackle anything this winter throws at us, are our vitamins!

And they aren’t just any vitamins; these five vitamins are expert-recommended for women, meaning your body can feel energised, and your skin can be glowing throughout these dark days!

Iron

Active Iron – €24.95

While iron is an important mineral for everyone, it is particularly important that women have enough iron in their diet, especially around certain life stages, including menstruation, pregnancy, post pregnancy and at different phases during the menopause.

Iron is found in our blood, so it’s no surprise that women can often have low iron levels in their bodies, especially during menstruation. These low levels of iron can lead to anaemia and can cause other health complications, particularly during pregnancy.

Iron is responsible for the production of energy and can help build a stronger immune system. That’s why women are advised to take an iron supplement each day, as we tend to lose more blood than men. Taking iron means you feel less tired, have more energy and are ready to battle the cold and flu season head-on! And I am sure we all need the energy and flu protection we can get after the festive season!

Vitamin D

Boots Vitamin D – €5.99

We always hear talk of how important vitamin D is, but tend to often only associate it with children and their development. However, while it is crucial for kids, it’s also crucial for us women, too!

Vitamin D helps the body to absorb calcium and uses it to help keep our bones strong and sturdy. And as women are at higher risk of developing serious bone diseases, it’s vital we are taking this vitamin to protect us in the future.

Not only that, but taking vitamin D can actually help us feel a little brighter even as the days stay darker. With sunlight affecting our brains’ serotonin levels, and the lack of daylight during the winter, it can have a real impact on our mental well-being. But taking one little Vitamin D supplement, or upping the amount in your diet, can make a real difference to how you feel this winter season. It can be hard with the dark days, but this little step might just help you feel that little bit brighter!

B Vitamins

Viridian – €19.60

The B vitamins could quite possibly be the most important vitamins for women’s health, and leading the way is vitamin B12.

This vitamin is crucial for overall health in women and has some amazing benefits! B12 helps convert food to energy to combat tiredness, produces healthy blood cells to prevent weakness in the body, and helps to contribute to normal psychological functions to support your mood and memory. And most importantly, during the winter, vitamin B12 supports healthy skin, hair and nails, to keep you glowing, from your head, to quite literally, your toes!

Taking this vitamin alongside biotin, or B7, will have your skin, nails and hair in the best condition ever, as B7 is responsible for the production of keratin in the body. Keratin is linked to promoting strong hair, healthier, glowing skin, and resilient nails. And what a perfect time to take this “beauty vitamin” as we use winter to prep for springtime glow up – because who doesn’t want to enter the spring season feeling fabulous with gorgeous locks, and plump skin!

Vitamin E

Holland & Barrett Vitamin E – €27.99

Vitamin E is another important vitamin that should be included in your diet. The antioxidant properties that it contains can actually help protect your skin from ageing and any sun damage, keeping your skin looking young and healthy!

Taking vitamin E during the menopause can sometimes help reduce hot flashes and regulate mood swings, so it’s worth giving it a try.

While you can include most of these vitamins in your diet, it can sometimes be a little more convenient to take a supplement in the morning. With that in mind, here are some of the best multivitamins for women on the market!