Why is vitamin D so important?

It’s estimated that 1 in 5 people in the UK are vitamin D deficient.

Vitamin D is produced under our skin when exposed to sunlight. It’s also found in some foods (such as oily fish, eggs and mushrooms) but it’s not usually possible to meet our daily requirement from food alone.

Vitamin D is usually associated with bone and immune health, but it has multiple roles in the body, and low levels have been linked to chronic fatigue, autoimmune diseases, increased intestinal permeability, mental health disorders, and many other issues.

With fewer hours of sunlight as we head into autumn/winter in the UK, we are unable to get enough vitamin D without taking a supplement. This transition to darker evenings should act as a reminder to start taking a supplement if you haven’t already.

The NHS recommends everyone aged 1 and above in the UK should take 10 micrograms (400 International Units) a day from October to March. If you are in a group at high risk of deficiency, you may need to take a supplement all year round. We are all unique, and regularly testing your vitamin D levels is a great way to ensure you’re taking the right amount for you.

Taking too much vitamin D could be harmful, so always seek advice from a healthcare professional regarding dose, and never take more than the safe upper limit of 100 micrograms (4000IU) per day (for adults) unless advised by a qualified nutrition or medical professional.