The Evolving Wellness Podcast with Sarah Kleiner Wellness

The Dark Side of Vitamin D & the REAL Problem in Winter

Dec 24, 2025
Explore the intriguing relationship between vitamin D and melatonin during winter. Learn how modern lifestyles impact our hormonal balance, with stress and blue light playing significant roles. Dive into the potential risks of vitamin D supplementation and why natural sources may be preferable. Discover how winter infections affect vitamin D levels and why melatonin is essential for maintaining health. Uncover the importance of circadian rhythms and the consequences of disrupted sleep patterns on our well-being.
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INSIGHT

Seasonal D Drop Is Normal; Melatonin Compensates

  • Vitamin D is meant to drop in winter while melatonin should rise to enable mitochondrial repair.
  • Modern life often suppresses melatonin, creating a dangerous mismatch with low winter vitamin D.
ADVICE

Prioritize Morning Sunlight Daily

  • Get morning natural light (UVA, red/infrared) to set sleep pressure and boost serotonin/dopamine for that night's melatonin.
  • Step outside daily even in winter to support mitochondrial timing and vitamin D metabolism.
ADVICE

Avoid Evening Blue Light

  • Avoid blue light at night because it can suppress melatonin by up to 90% and disrupt nighttime repair.
  • Replace evening screens with low-light, restorative activities to protect sleep and vitamin D signaling.
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