Why Vitamin D is the Shield Your Immune System Needs
- Dr. Brian Gaughan DC
- Sep 30
- 3 min read
When fall and winter roll around in the Northeast, it’s almost like clockwork that people start coming down with colds, the flu, or just feeling run down. Many think this happens because there are simply more viruses around. But here’s the truth: the pathogens that cause these illnesses are here year-round. What changes is our immune system’s ability to fight them off, and one of the biggest reasons is a lack of vitamin D. This is why fall and winter become seasons of sniffles: not because more germs are present, but because our shield is weaker.
The Power of Vitamin D ☀️
Vitamin D is often called the “sunshine vitamin”, and for good reason. Our bodies produce it naturally when sunlight hits our skin. Beyond supporting bone health, Vitamin D is a critical player in the immune system. It helps immune cells recognize harmful invaders like bacteria and viruses, while also regulating inflammation so the body doesn’t overreact.
Think of vitamin D as the commander that keeps your immune “soldiers” (White Blood Cells) sharp, disciplined, and ready for battle. Without enough of it, your defenses are weakened, and infections are more likely to take hold.
Why We Struggle to Get Enough in the Northeast
Living in New England or other northern states brings unique challenges for vitamin D production.
Shorter Days: Less daylight means less opportunity to make vitamin D.
Colder Weather Habits: Staying indoors more keeps us warmer, but blocks the UVB rays our bodies need.
By late winter, many people in the Northeast are deficient, and that deficiency translates directly into weakened immunity.
Practical Tips to Strengthen Your Immune System
While vitamin D plays a starring role, your immune system works best when the whole body is supported. Here are a few practical ways to stay strong as it gets colder:
Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7 - 9 hours per night; your immune system regenerates while you rest.
Stay Active: Regular movement boosts circulation, helping immune cells travel where they’re needed.
Get Outside: Even when it starts to get cold it is important to get outside and still get some sunlight.
Eat Colorful Foods: Fruits and vegetables supply antioxidants and nutrients that help your body fight stress and inflammation.
Manage Stress: Massage Therapy, deep breathing, and Spiritual practices like prayer and meditation, can help calm the nervous system and support immunity.
Stay Hydrated: Even mild dehydration can affect how well your body flushes toxins and maintains defense.
Supplementing with Vitamin D
Because it’s almost impossible to get enough vitamin D naturally in the Northeast winters, supplementation is often the smartest choice.
Get tested first: A simple blood test gives clarity on your baseline levels of Vitamin D and other important white blood cell markers.
Typical needs: Many adults require 4,000 IU daily in winter, but the right dose depends on your personal health and lab results.
Combine with healthy fats: Vitamin D is fat-soluble, so taking it with a meal that includes healthy fats improves absorption.
Don’t forget synergy: Vitamin K2 and magnesium are helpful partners, ensuring vitamin D is properly utilized in the body.
Artificial Sun Lamp: Sun lamps can be a good way of still having your body enjoy the benefits of the sun while inside.
Other Immune System Supplements we Recommend:
- Immuplex – Broad-spectrum daily immune support with vitamins A, C, E, B complex, and minerals like zinc, copper, and iron.
- Woad Supreme - Woad Supreme is an herbal supplement whose active ingredient is Isatis tinctoria (also called “woad” or “indigowoad root”). Each bottle contains about 90 vegetarian (veggie) capsules, each with ~560 mg of the powdered Isatis root. The formula is free of fillers, binders, or excipients.
- Elderberry - Has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for colds, flus, and seasonal immune challenges. The berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and flavonoids that help strengthen the immune system and fight oxidative stress.
The Bottom Line
Illness isn’t just about being exposed to more germs—it’s about having a weaker defense system. Vitamin D is one of the most important nutrients for immune health, but living in the Northeast makes it nearly impossible to maintain optimal levels in the fall and winter without support.
By being proactive—testing your levels, supplementing wisely, and practicing healthy daily habits—you give your immune system the tools it needs to keep you strong and resilient all season long.
So this fall and winter, don’t just prepare for colder weather, prepare your immune system too.
For the month of October 2025, take 10% OFF Immune R-Mor and Congaplex Supplements, and Immune Harmony Essential Oil when purchased in the office.
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