22/09/2025
Did you know that in the UK, the sun is only strong enough to meet our Vitamin D needs from April to September? โ๏ธ
๐ Why Vitamin D is important
Vitamin D is important for healthy bones, muscles, and teeth. For example, we need vitamin D to absorb calcium and phosphorus from our food. These nutrients help our body to build and maintain bone.
๐ Why would I need a vitamin D supplement?
Your body makes vitamin D when your skin is out in the sunlight. You can also get it from foods, including eggs, oily fish, and fortified cereals. But itโs difficult for most people in the UK to get enough.
Taking a daily supplement containing 10 ยตg (micrograms) of vitamin D from October to March will help make up this shortfall. If you work indoors, you could also try taking a walk outside at lunchtime to boost your sunlight exposure.
๐ Do I need to take vitamin D all year?
Itโs especially important to take vitamin D supplements during autumn and winter.
From April to September, you can still choose to take vitamin D supplements if you wish. But you normally get more exposure to the sun during these months.
Certain groups are at a higher risk of having low vitamin D. People from these groups should consider taking a supplement throughout the year.
People with dark skin, who donโt make as much vitamin D from sunlight.
People who donโt get much exposure to sunlight. This could apply if you donโt get outdoors much, or if you wear clothes that cover most of your skin.
๐ Do my levels need to be tested?
You wonโt usually need to have a blood test unless you have signs of deficiency.
If youโre an adult, your doctor may ask to test your vitamin D levels if you have pain in your bones, or muscle weakness. This could be a sign of bone disease, like osteoporosis.
๐ Do I need a prescription?
No, you can buy vitamin D supplements from supermarkets, pharmacies, and health food shops. Although you donโt need to take more than 10 ยตg (micrograms), products that provide up to 25 ยตg are suitable for most people.
Although the recommend doses will be suitable for most people, itโs important to take the dose thatโs right for you. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if youโre unsure.
