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Vitamin D: Your Defence Against Winter Weight Gain

By: If there is one nutrient to pay extra attention to this winter, it is vitamin D. Vitamin D plays a role in: Bone and tooth health Immune function Heart and cardiovascular health Mood and seasonal depression And there is more. Research suggests that people who are deficient in vitamin

vitamin D winter weight gain
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Valley Medical Team

Published:

February 7, 2024

Updated:

April 24, 2026

Published:

February 7, 2024

Updated:

April 24, 2026

If there is one nutrient to pay extra attention to this winter, it is vitamin D.

Vitamin D plays a role in:

  • Bone and tooth health
  • Immune function
  • Heart and cardiovascular health
  • Mood and seasonal depression

And there is more. Research suggests that people who are deficient in vitamin D are more likely to be overweight or obese, and that correcting a deficiency may help support weight loss.

One Italian study found that dieters who took vitamin D supplements in addition to following a low-calorie meal plan lost more weight than those who restricted calories alone.

Vitamin D is not a magic weight loss pill, but it may be an important piece of the winter wellness puzzle.

What Makes Vitamin D Unique?

Vitamin D is unique in several ways:

  • Although it is classified as a vitamin, it acts more like a steroid hormone in the body.
  • It helps keep bones and teeth strong, but it also plays a role in metabolism regulation and many other processes.
  • Your body can make vitamin D from sunlight. When your skin is exposed to UVB rays, it converts them into a form of vitamin D your body can use.

This is both good and challenging news.

  • Good news: In sunny months, many people make a significant amount of vitamin D from sun exposure.
  • Challenging news: Vitamin D is not naturally present in many foods. In the darker, colder months, it can be hard to meet your needs through diet and limited sun alone.

A study in the Archives of Internal Medicine reported that approximately 77 per cent of Americans are at least mildly deficient in vitamin D.

Vitamin D and Winter Weight Gain

Winter can set the stage for weight gain:

  • Less sunlight and more time indoors
  • Lower activity levels
  • Heavier, comfort-focused foods
  • Mood changes and increased cravings

Vitamin D deficiency may contribute to this pattern by:

  • Affecting metabolism and how your body uses energy
  • Influencing insulin sensitivity and blood sugar
  • Playing a role in mood and motivation

Correcting a deficiency will not replace a healthy meal plan and movement, but it may help your body function closer to its best during the winter months.

Weekly Mindset & Weight Loss Tips

Subscribe for expert insights on building confidence, overcoming mental barriers, and achieving lasting weight loss success. Join patients who are transforming both body and mind.Join our newsletter for expert insights on treating melasma, hyperpigmentation, and other skin concerns. Our medical aesthetic team shares practical advice to help you achieve clear, radiant skin.

How To Get More Vitamin D

The best approach is a combination of food, lifestyle, and supplementation when needed.

Food Sources of Vitamin D

Vitamin D is naturally found in only a few foods, including:

  • Fatty fish such as tuna, mackerel, and salmon
  • Egg yolks
  • Cheese
  • Beef liver

Some foods are fortified with vitamin D, such as:

  • Certain cereals
  • Some orange juices
  • Many dairy products and plant milks

Even with these foods, it can be difficult to consistently reach recommended levels from diet alone, especially in winter.

Recommended Intake

Current general guidelines are:

  • About 600–800 IU per day for most adults

Some experts, including the Vitamin D Council, suggest that many adults may benefit from higher intakes (for example, up to 5,000 IU per day), especially if they are deficient. However, this should be guided by a healthcare provider and, ideally, based on blood testing.

Because needs vary, it is best to talk with a medical provider about:

  • Your current vitamin D status
  • Appropriate dosing
  • How long to supplement at a given level

What Is D-Mulsion?

At Valley Medical Weight Loss and Med Spa, we often recommend a high-quality vitamin D supplement, especially in the winter months.

D-Mulsion is an emulsified form of vitamin D designed to be easier for the body to absorb.

  • Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, which means it is absorbed better when taken with fat.
  • The Genestra brand D-Mulsion includes extra virgin olive oil to support absorption.
  • The emulsified form helps disperse the vitamin D in tiny droplets, which may further support uptake.

Potential Benefits of D-Mulsion*

Vitamin D has many known roles in the body. When used appropriately under medical guidance, D-Mulsion may help support:

  • Musculoskeletal health*
  • Immune function*
  • Cardiovascular health*
  • Weight loss efforts (especially when correcting a deficiency)*
  • Bone health and density*
  • Brain development and function later in life*
  • Reduced severity and frequency of asthma symptoms*
  • Lower risk of certain autoimmune conditions, such as multiple sclerosis*

Some research has also explored vitamin D’s potential role in:

  • Cancer risk modulation*
  • Rheumatoid arthritis risk in women*
  • Recovery from certain infections, such as tuberculosis*
  • Protection against some types of radiation damage*

These areas are still being studied, and vitamin D should not be viewed as a stand-alone treatment for any serious condition.

Who May Benefit Most From D-Mulsion?

Almost anyone who is low in vitamin D may benefit from supplementation, but it can be especially important for individuals who:

  • Do not receive at least 3–5 hours of sunlight per week
  • Live at higher latitudes or spend most of their time indoors
  • Have autoimmune diseases
  • Have a family history of certain cancers
  • Come into contact with radiation frequently (for example, some healthcare or industrial settings)
  • Are pregnant or nursing (with dosing guided by their provider)

A simple blood test can help determine your vitamin D level and guide dosing.

How Should I Take D-Mulsion?

Always follow the instructions provided by your medical provider.

  • Many adults take one drop twice daily, directly on or under the tongue, or as directed.
  • Because vitamin D is fat-soluble, it is often best taken with a meal that contains some healthy fat.
  • Your provider may adjust the dose based on your lab results, health status, and goals.

Possible Side Effects of Too Much Vitamin D

When taken as recommended by a qualified health practitioner, D-Mulsion is generally considered very safe for most people.

However, taking excessively high doses of vitamin D over time can lead to toxicity. Possible symptoms of too much vitamin D may include:

  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Sleepiness
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dry mouth or metallic taste
  • Nausea or vomiting

This is another reason it is important to:

  • Work with a medical provider
  • Avoid self-prescribing very high doses long term
  • Recheck your levels periodically if you are on higher-dose supplementation

Support Your Winter Health With Vitamin D

If you are concerned about winter weight gain, low energy, or frequent illness, vitamin D may be one of the missing pieces.

At Valley Medical Weight Loss and Med Spa, we can:

  • Order or review your vitamin D lab work
  • Recommend an appropriate dose and form, such as D-Mulsion
  • Integrate vitamin D into a broader plan that may include:
    • Medical weight loss programs
    • GLP-1 medications when appropriate
    • Personalised meal planning
    • Lifestyle strategies for winter wellness

If you are ready to take a proactive step against winter weight gain and support your whole-body health, reach out to your nearest Valley Medical Weight Loss and Med Spa location to learn more about vitamin D testing and supplementation.

Schedule your appointment today:

Walk-In Hours: Mon–Fri: New patients until 4:30 PM, existing patients until 5:30 PM; Sat: until 2:30 PM; Sun: Closed.

About Valley Medical Weight Loss and Med Spa

Valley Medical Weight Loss and Med Spa has been serving the Phoenix area for over 15 years with comprehensive, physician-supervised weight loss and aesthetic services.

Our team understands that winter can be a challenging season for weight, mood, and overall wellness. We combine:

  • Medical-grade testing and supplementation
  • Personalised nutrition and movement plans
  • Evidence-based weight loss medications, when appropriate
  • Ongoing support and accountability

to help you navigate the colder months feeling more energised, supported, and in control of your health.

Important Information

General Disclaimer:
The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting vitamin D supplementation or making significant changes to your diet, exercise routine, or medications, especially if you have existing health conditions.

Supplement Use:
Vitamin D supplements, including D-Mulsion, should be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. Dosage and duration should be individualised based on lab results, health status, and overall treatment plan.

Weight Loss Results:
Weight loss results vary based on diet, exercise, metabolism, medication use, and overall lifestyle. Valley Medical Weight Loss does not guarantee specific results. Any examples or typical results are not guaranteed for all patients.

Vitamin D: Your Defence Against Winter Weight Gain

By Dr. Samuel Zuniga, ND
Valley Medical Weight Loss | Chandler, Arizona

If there is one nutrient to pay extra attention to this winter, it is vitamin D.

Vitamin D plays a role in:

  • Bone and tooth health
  • Immune function
  • Heart and cardiovascular health
  • Mood and seasonal depression

And there is more. Research suggests that people who are deficient in vitamin D are more likely to be overweight or obese, and that correcting a deficiency may help support weight loss.

One Italian study found that dieters who took vitamin D supplements in addition to following a low-calorie meal plan lost more weight than those who restricted calories alone.

Vitamin D is not a magic weight loss pill, but it may be an important piece of the winter wellness puzzle.

What Makes Vitamin D Unique?

Vitamin D is unique in several ways:

  • Although it is classified as a vitamin, it acts more like a steroid hormone in the body.
  • It helps keep bones and teeth strong, but it also plays a role in metabolism regulation and many other processes.
  • Your body can make vitamin D from sunlight. When your skin is exposed to UVB rays, it converts them into a form of vitamin D your body can use.

This is both good and challenging news.

  • Good news: In sunny months, many people make a significant amount of vitamin D from sun exposure.
  • Challenging news: Vitamin D is not naturally present in many foods. In the darker, colder months, it can be hard to meet your needs through diet and limited sun alone.

A study in the Archives of Internal Medicine reported that approximately 77 per cent of Americans are at least mildly deficient in vitamin D.

Vitamin D and Winter Weight Gain

Winter can set the stage for weight gain:

  • Less sunlight and more time indoors
  • Lower activity levels
  • Heavier, comfort-focused foods
  • Mood changes and increased cravings

Vitamin D deficiency may contribute to this pattern by:

  • Affecting metabolism and how your body uses energy
  • Influencing insulin sensitivity and blood sugar
  • Playing a role in mood and motivation

Correcting a deficiency will not replace a healthy meal plan and movement, but it may help your body function closer to its best during the winter months.

Weekly Mindset & Weight Loss Tips

Subscribe for expert insights on building confidence, overcoming mental barriers, and achieving lasting weight loss success. Join patients who are transforming both body and mind.Join our newsletter for expert insights on treating melasma, hyperpigmentation, and other skin concerns. Our medical aesthetic team shares practical advice to help you achieve clear, radiant skin.

How To Get More Vitamin D

The best approach is a combination of food, lifestyle, and supplementation when needed.

Food Sources of Vitamin D

Vitamin D is naturally found in only a few foods, including:

  • Fatty fish such as tuna, mackerel, and salmon
  • Egg yolks
  • Cheese
  • Beef liver

Some foods are fortified with vitamin D, such as:

  • Certain cereals
  • Some orange juices
  • Many dairy products and plant milks

Even with these foods, it can be difficult to consistently reach recommended levels from diet alone, especially in winter.

Recommended Intake

Current general guidelines are:

  • About 600–800 IU per day for most adults

Some experts, including the Vitamin D Council, suggest that many adults may benefit from higher intakes (for example, up to 5,000 IU per day), especially if they are deficient. However, this should be guided by a healthcare provider and, ideally, based on blood testing.

Because needs vary, it is best to talk with a medical provider about:

  • Your current vitamin D status
  • Appropriate dosing
  • How long to supplement at a given level

What Is D-Mulsion?

At Valley Medical Weight Loss and Med Spa, we often recommend a high-quality vitamin D supplement, especially in the winter months.

D-Mulsion is an emulsified form of vitamin D designed to be easier for the body to absorb.

  • Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, which means it is absorbed better when taken with fat.
  • The Genestra brand D-Mulsion includes extra virgin olive oil to support absorption.
  • The emulsified form helps disperse the vitamin D in tiny droplets, which may further support uptake.

Potential Benefits of D-Mulsion*

Vitamin D has many known roles in the body. When used appropriately under medical guidance, D-Mulsion may help support:

  • Musculoskeletal health*
  • Immune function*
  • Cardiovascular health*
  • Weight loss efforts (especially when correcting a deficiency)*
  • Bone health and density*
  • Brain development and function later in life*
  • Reduced severity and frequency of asthma symptoms*
  • Lower risk of certain autoimmune conditions, such as multiple sclerosis*

Some research has also explored vitamin D’s potential role in:

  • Cancer risk modulation*
  • Rheumatoid arthritis risk in women*
  • Recovery from certain infections, such as tuberculosis*
  • Protection against some types of radiation damage*

These areas are still being studied, and vitamin D should not be viewed as a stand-alone treatment for any serious condition.

Who May Benefit Most From D-Mulsion?

Almost anyone who is low in vitamin D may benefit from supplementation, but it can be especially important for individuals who:

  • Do not receive at least 3–5 hours of sunlight per week
  • Live at higher latitudes or spend most of their time indoors
  • Have autoimmune diseases
  • Have a family history of certain cancers
  • Come into contact with radiation frequently (for example, some healthcare or industrial settings)
  • Are pregnant or nursing (with dosing guided by their provider)

A simple blood test can help determine your vitamin D level and guide dosing.

How Should I Take D-Mulsion?

Always follow the instructions provided by your medical provider.

  • Many adults take one drop twice daily, directly on or under the tongue, or as directed.
  • Because vitamin D is fat-soluble, it is often best taken with a meal that contains some healthy fat.
  • Your provider may adjust the dose based on your lab results, health status, and goals.

Possible Side Effects of Too Much Vitamin D

When taken as recommended by a qualified health practitioner, D-Mulsion is generally considered very safe for most people.

However, taking excessively high doses of vitamin D over time can lead to toxicity. Possible symptoms of too much vitamin D may include:

  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Sleepiness
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Dry mouth or metallic taste
  • Nausea or vomiting

This is another reason it is important to:

  • Work with a medical provider
  • Avoid self-prescribing very high doses long term
  • Recheck your levels periodically if you are on higher-dose supplementation

Support Your Winter Health With Vitamin D

If you are concerned about winter weight gain, low energy, or frequent illness, vitamin D may be one of the missing pieces.

At Valley Medical Weight Loss and Med Spa, we can:

  • Order or review your vitamin D lab work
  • Recommend an appropriate dose and form, such as D-Mulsion
  • Integrate vitamin D into a broader plan that may include:
    • Medical weight loss programs
    • GLP-1 medications when appropriate
    • Personalised meal planning
    • Lifestyle strategies for winter wellness

If you are ready to take a proactive step against winter weight gain and support your whole-body health, reach out to your nearest Valley Medical Weight Loss and Med Spa location to learn more about vitamin D testing and supplementation.

Schedule your appointment today:

Walk-In Hours: Mon–Fri: New patients until 4:30 PM, existing patients until 5:30 PM; Sat: until 2:30 PM; Sun: Closed.

About Valley Medical Weight Loss and Med Spa

Valley Medical Weight Loss and Med Spa has been serving the Phoenix area for over 15 years with comprehensive, physician-supervised weight loss and aesthetic services.

Our team understands that winter can be a challenging season for weight, mood, and overall wellness. We combine:

  • Medical-grade testing and supplementation
  • Personalised nutrition and movement plans
  • Evidence-based weight loss medications, when appropriate
  • Ongoing support and accountability

to help you navigate the colder months feeling more energised, supported, and in control of your health.

Important Information

General Disclaimer:
The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting vitamin D supplementation or making significant changes to your diet, exercise routine, or medications, especially if you have existing health conditions.

Supplement Use:
Vitamin D supplements, including D-Mulsion, should be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. Dosage and duration should be individualised based on lab results, health status, and overall treatment plan.

Weight Loss Results:
Weight loss results vary based on diet, exercise, metabolism, medication use, and overall lifestyle. Valley Medical Weight Loss does not guarantee specific results. Any examples or typical results are not guaranteed for all patients.

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Desert Inflatables
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I’ve had a great experience working with Valley Medical in Chandler. I have lost 20 pounds so far with the help from Alejandra, she has been very informative on this journey. Everyone here is very friendly and personable. If you are looking to lose weight and have more energy I would highly recommend coming to start your journey!
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Juice Butterfly Tarot
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Love it here ! Friendly, fast and makes me feel motivated ! Christine and Amelia were phenomenal slay queens ! I've lost 5ibs since being here ! I'm ready to keep going 🩵
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Chaz Walker
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Alejandra was fantastic one of the best workers up in the office had a great and uplifting attitude she went above and beyond to help answers all questions efficiently would highly recommend goin here 12 out of 10 ratings great job
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Jimmy Hill
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I highly recommend Valley Medical Weight Loss! Alejandra has been amazing from day one supportive, motivating, and truly invested in my success. In just over 8 weeks, I’ve lost nearly 30 pounds. They genuinely care about your health and make the process feel manageable and personalized. Thank you, Alejandra!
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Antoinette Scott
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Awesome staff, courteous and clean. I’m down 40 lbs in one month. Prices for supplements are better than getting them from Amazon!
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Eira Leyva
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Stephanie muy linda y atenta persona muy buena explicación hacerca del tratamiento
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Alice McLemore
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Happy they have a location in chandler now. Staff is extremely friendly and helpful.
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Andrea Madrid
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I’ve had a great experience here so far. The staff is absolutely amazing very kind, supportive, and always willing to answer my questions. They truly make you feel comfortable and encouraged throughout the weight-loss process. I’m seeing results and feel well taken care of. Highly recommend!
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Nelly Irias
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Love the new clinic, the space is beautiful and welcoming, and the staff was amazing! Alejandra took great care of me. She was very informative, made me feel comfortable throughout the whole process, and I honestly didn’t even feel my injection. Such a great experience, and I’m already looking forward to coming back!
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