Nightshifters: Are You Getting Enough Vitamin D?

By Rachel Lamb . 28/03/2017 · 2 Minute read

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When you work all night, it goes without saying that you would probably get your sleep during the day. But all of that shut-eye when the sun is up means that your body is missing out on the essential Vitamin D that you need for energy. Switching your shift probably isn’t feasible so instead, try some of these solutions to getting as much Vit D as possible!

Eat Oily Fish

Oily or fatty fish is a great source of Vitamin D. Cook up a fillet of salmon, trout, mackerel or tuna and you could be taking in around 450 international units (IUs) of Vitamin D! Not only do you get a healthy dose of vitamins but you’ll also get some bonus omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for keeping your heart healthy!

Tip: Canned tuna will give you plenty of Vitamin D and is cheaper to buy than fresh fish.

Fortified Foods

Invest in a breakfast cereal that has been fortified with Vitamin D. You can usually see what good things have been added to your food by checking the box. Cereals such as All Bran, Cheerios, and Quaker Oats are high in Vit D and aren’t too expensive to buy. You might not see the morning very often but who says you can’t eat its food?

Buy Some Over the Counter Supplements

If you’re struggling to fit Vitamin D into your diet, you can easily find some supplements in pharmacies, supermarkets and health stores. These will vary in price with branded supplements typically costing more. Make sure you consult the label and do not exceed the suggested daily dose. Ask your pharmacist for more information.

We’re Not Yolking

Eggs are a great source of Vitamin D! At about 40 IUs per yolk, a boiled egg can make an ideal snack in between shifts or on the go. Eggs are also high in protein, which will keep you feeling fuller for longer.

Cod Liver Oil

Don’t be put off by the name, cod liver oil is often flavoured or produced in capsule form. This simple supplement is perfect for daily consumption but don’t exceed the daily stated dose. Ask your pharmacist for more info.

Catch up on more of our night shift hacks here

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