JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – According to the national Institutes of Health, people can develop vitamin D deficiency when usual intakes are lower over time than recommended levels.

This can happen easily in North Dakota as the months grow colder.

Dr. Nick Schmidt with Sanford Health reports that vitamin D provides a multitude of benefits to the body and is necessary to remain healthy.

Dr. Schmidt says many health benefits can come from having a proper source and amount of vitamin D.

While a primary source of vitamin D can be the sun, Dr. Schmidt says North Dakota winters don’t allow for the amount of sun we need to get proper levels. He added there are different ways including diet and supplements to assist during the colder months.

In recent studies, it’s also been found that there could be benefits of vitamin D used in combating COVID-19 and it’s symptoms.

As always, it’s advised to contact your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding vitamin D and COVID-19.

Listen to a full Let’s Talk About It with Dr. Nick Schmidt below: