Get more Vitamin D this winter; try increasing your sunlight in these cities

For a large part of the nation, winter is brutal. Days are shorter, temperatures are colder, and some suffer from a holiday hangover of initially struggling to reacclimate to their routine. For overall improved health a quick winter getaway may be just what the doctor ordered, especially for African Americans.

“Those most at risk for low vitamin D levels are people of color,” Pennsylvania State University molecular immunology professor Margherita T. Cantorna told The Washington Post. “Dark -skinned individuals are more likely than fair-skinned individuals to be low for vitamin D year-round because the darker skin blocks the UVB rays from producing vitamin D. But even in dark-skinned individuals, vitamin D is lowest in the winter.”

To help boost your Vitamin D, here are some top destinations to enjoy some fun in the sun this winter.

Phoenix, Arizona

If you are looking for a break from winter weather, but not exactly summer temperatures, Phoenix may be perfect for you. The average winter temperatures feel more like spring with temperatures ranging from 68-72 degrees. Phoenix is great for nature enthusiasts. It’s home to great hiking trails and the Desert Botanical Garden which is easier to enjoy in the cooler winter instead of the extreme heat in the summer. The Phoenix Suns are one of the top teams in the NBA currently, coming off an NBA Finals appearance last year, so attending a home game is another great activity.

Siesta Key, Florida

Florida always comes to mind for a winter getaway, but what if you want to stay away from college spring breakers, family theme parks, and retirees in their golden years? Siesta Key may be a great fit for you. Siesta Key is a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico near Sarasota, Florida. With average temperatures in the mid 70s, Siesta Key is perfect for lazy days on the beach taking in the gulf breeze and Florida sun. Floridarentals.com ranks Siesta Keys as a top destination with friendly locals.

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs is located approximately 100 miles outside of Los Angeles. Palm trees and the San Jacinto Mountains provide beautiful scenery for planetware.com’s top 15 place to visit in California. There are plenty of tourists attractions including gourmet restaurants, golf courses, and Joshua Tree National Park is just under a hour away. Palm Springs also averages 350 days of sunshine yearly with temperatures just above 70.

Whether a solo trip, baecation, or trip with friends, these cities provide great opportunities to get a break from seeing your breath when you walk outside. Winter takes a toll on your body physically and mentally. Treat yourself to a few days in the sun. Your body will thank you later.