Help Your Team Stay Healthy, Energized, and Productive
As temperatures rise, now’s a great time to remind employees of a simple but powerful wellness tip: getting enough vitamin D. Often called the “sunshine vitamin,” vitamin D supports immune health, mood, energy levels, and bone strength—all of which contribute to a happier, healthier, and more productive team.
Vitamin D: More Than Just a Vitamin
Unlike most nutrients, vitamin D acts like a hormone in the body. When skin is exposed to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, it triggers a natural process that helps regulate everything from calcium absorption to immune response. That natural process is actually a chemical reaction which converts cholesterol into vitamin D3, the active form of the nutrient. Once in the bloodstream, it travels to the liver and kidneys where it is further processed into calcitriol, the hormonally active form. Calcitriol binds to vitamin D receptors found throughout the body, influencing gene expression and playing a critical role in calcium metabolism, immune response, and cell growth regulation.
Without enough, employees may experience fatigue, frequent illness, or even low mood—all of which can impact workplace performance.
A Safer Way to Soak Up the Sun
For employees in warmer climates, like here in Texas, traditional advice to get sun at midday may not be practical—or safe. Instead, encourage your team to get brief sun exposure in the early morning or early evening. Just 15–30 minutes a few times a week on the arms or legs can be enough for most people. Outdoor breaks, walking meetings, or remote workdays spent near a window or on a porch can all help. Don’t forget—vitamin D-rich foods and supplements can also help maintain healthy levels.