Winter can place extra pressure on the immune system, particularly when people are spending more time indoors and sunlight exposure is reduced.
Two nutrients often discussed during winter are vitamin C and vitamin D.
Vitamin C supports normal immune function and can be found in foods such as citrus fruit, kiwifruit, berries, capsicum, broccoli, and leafy greens.
Vitamin D supports bone health, muscle function, and overall wellbeing. For many people, sunlight is the main source of vitamin D, which means levels can become lower during winter when daylight hours are shorter and people are indoors more often.
For people who may be at risk of deficiency, it is important to seek professional medical advice about testing or supplementation.
Workplaces do not need to provide medical advice to support winter wellbeing. They can help by encouraging people to take breaks, get outside where possible, eat well, and seek appropriate health guidance when needed.
