Vitamin D Fact Checked
- Our main source of Vitamin D is the Sun.
- In the UK the sun is only strong enough between March & September to cause the chemical reaction in our skin that gives us Vitamin D.
- All children in the UK, from birth to 4 years old, are recommended to take Vitamin D supplements.
- Vitamin D is important for bone development and a healthy immune system.
- Adults and children alike can be low in Vitamin D, especially in the UK. People with darker skin and those who spend a lot of time inside or cover their skin are at higher risk.
- Low Vitamin D can cause bone pains and has also been linked to low mood. There is also a possible link with Multiple Sclerosis.
- 1000 Units per day is sufficient for most people. Experts recommend everyone should consider taking a Vitamin D supplement.
- Taking too much can be potentially dangerous, so avoid taking the high doses such as 10,000 units daily, this will be far too much for most people.
- If you get a bad stomach taking the capsules or tablets, the drops will usually suit you better.
Vitamin D Replacement
If you doctor has already told you that you are low on vitamin D they may have prescribed you a replacement course e.g. 20,000 Units per week for 7 weeks if you are deficient or 20,000 Units a month for 3 months if your levels are inadequate. They should have already checked your calcium levels and kidney function prior to prescribing this.
Once you have finished this course, they may recommend taking an ‘Over the Counter’ supplement for life, usually 1000 Units per day.
Foods such as oily fish (mackerel & salmon), mushrooms and eggs all contain Vitamin D. Some cereals, bread and margarine are supplemented with it. It’s more difficult to get sufficient if you have a vegan diet and a supplement may be the best way to keep your levels topped up.
Which supplement should I buy?
This depends on your preference, age and if you mind taking capsules or tablets. If your baby is bottle fed there is probably sufficient in the formula milk. They should start a supplement after finishing formula milk. Below is a selection you will find on Amazon and are also available in most high street and online pharmacies or health food shops.
Vitabiotics Ultra Vitamin D 1000 IU (International Units)
These one a day capsules are ideal. They provide the correct dose and are a good price at less than £5 for 96 days of vitamin D, thats half the price of a prescription and probably less than the NHS pays.