When it comes to maintaining a positive mood, the usual go-tos are moving your body, socializing with friends, and getting outside. Let’s focus on that last one on why getting outside can be so helpful on improving your mood. Vitamin D is often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin," and it has a big impact on how “sunshine-y” you feel.

Vitamin D3 is the natural form of vitamin D that is produced by the body when exposed to sunlight, and it plays a major role in regulating mood and warding off sadness and anxiety. But did you know that when it is paired with Vitamin K2, it helps ensure D3 is properly utilized in the body. These two together not only support bone health but also helps with your emotions.  And if you are getting a proper amount of D3 and K2, you may find yourself feeling brighter.

There is a lot of research that has established a connection between Vitamin D levels and mood regulation. We firmly think that low levels of Vitamin D can exacerbate different forms of depression and anxiety disorders. This nutrient is essential in producing the neurotransmitter serotonin, which is a well-known mood-enhancer. Low Vitamin D can also lead to decreased synthesis of serotonin which may result in depression.

Higher Vitamin D levels have been correlated with more positive reports of mental health and a feeling of wellness. It has been found that people who took Vitamin D supplements showed significant improvements in their mood— particularly in the winter months when there is less sunlight. It really goes to show just how important Vitamin D is for emotional balance.

Vitamin D3 is necessary for regulating your mood, but it does not work as efficiently without Vitamin K2. K2 helps to activate the proteins that ferry calcium around in our bodies and helps direct D3 towards where it is needed most. The synergy is essential not just for bone health but cardiovascular and cognitive functions as well.

Additionally, it is speculated that Vitamin K2 aids in the synthesis of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin essential for mood regulation. K2 helps contribute to Vitamin D3 being absorbed and utilized, which allows for it to work properly and improve mood, basically enhancing D3’s mood boosting effects. These vitamins form a fortress of strength that can protect you and generate positive feelings.

Most of us notice changes in our mood with the seasons, and this is especially true during the autumn and winter months. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a kind of depression that emerges in connection with a seasonal change, and mostly happens when our sunlight exposure reduces. Studies have shown that vitamin D3 supplementation can improve depression symptoms related to SAD.

Because D3 helps boost mood by supporting serotonin production, it may help those who are prone to the seasonal blues. This is especially true when taken with Vitamin K2 and this combination may be the best way to keep your spirits up all the year.

Getting more Vitamin D3 is simpler than you may think. We have a few practical tips you can start incorporating into your routine today:

1. Sunlight Exposure: Try and get at least 15-30 minutes of sunlight exposure each day. This natural source of Vitamin D which helps to release those happiness hormones in the brain. Remember to follow the safety of the sun, and make sure to protect your skin.
2. Eat foods high in vitamin D and K2: Vitamin D can be found in fatty fish (like salmon), egg yolks, and fortified foods like milk, cheese and even plant-based milk alternatives.
3. Supplementation: If you doubt your Vitamin D and K2 levels, it is advisable to get some quality supplements in daily intakes. We recommend a combo D3 & K2 like PlantFusion’s Organic Vegan D3+K2.

It is of the most importance to take care of yourself and prioritize your mental health. Vitamins D3 and K2 offer a natural and effective way to support mood regulation. By understanding these vitamins and incorporating them into your daily routine, you can take the positive steps toward enhancing your mental well-being.

So get out in the sunlight, eat a nutrient-rich diet, or start these high-quality supplements, and embrace the benefits of D3 and K2 —your mood might just thank you for it!