So does that mean we should be taking vitamin D supplements?

“NICE guidelines actually advise that all adults living in the UK should take a daily vitamin D supplement of 10 mcg (1000iu) throughout the year, in a bid to prevent any deficiencies from developing,” says Dr Atkinson.

“Depending on any underlying health concerns, your GP may advise an alternative dose. If you are worried about a vitamin D deficiency, you should speak to your doctor.”

What should we pay attention to when we’re feeling unwell?

Dr Atkinson says that we need to keep an eye on the following five things:

How are you sleeping? Are you getting enough sleep? Try and stick to a routine and see if this helps to improve your overall feeling.
Have you noticed any changes in your usual bowel habits?
Has your weight changed all of a sudden? If you’ve gained weight, it could be a sign that you’re eating more to offset stress or tiredness, or that you aren’t getting your normal levels of physical activity due to a packed work day. If you’ve lost quite a bit of weight without trying, it could be down to stress or feeling run-down.
Have you been feeling low more than usual? Have you been struggling to find joy in the things that would usually make you happy?
How much alcohol and/or caffeine are you consuming? Are you turning to these to help you wake up in the morning or relax in the evening? Doing this habitually can mask feelings of tiredness and, eventually, cause you to get run-down.

Feeling unwell, grotty and run-down right now? You’re not the only one