Vitamin D

What is vitamin D?

Vitamin D is often called the ‘sunshine vitamin’ because we get most of ours from sunlight. Our skin produces vitamin D in response to direct sunlight when we’re outdoors.

Why is vitamin D important?

Our body needs vitamin D as it helps with absorption of calcium from the foods we eat to support bone and teeth health. Vitamin D also regulates the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body to help keep muscles healthy too.

Where can I get vitamin D from?

During the summer months in the UK most people can get all their vitamin D from the sun. As well as through sunlight we can also get vitamin D from certain foods such as oily fish, eggs and fortified cereals. You can also get vitamin D through supplements, the NHS recommend taking 10mcg of vitamin D a day during autumn and winter.

When should I take vitamin D?

You should take vitamin D supplements between October and March or if you spend a lot of time indoors. This is because in the winter months and when you’re inside you can’t get the vitamin D you need from sunlight. If you have darker skin or usually cover up in the sun you can take a supplement daily all year round.