Vitamin D, often dubbed the "sunshine vitamin", is a hormone that our skin synthesises upon exposure to sunlight. It plays an essential role in numerous bodily functions, including bolstering the immune system, reducing inflammation, maintaining bone and joint health, supporting mental well-being, and ensuring heart function. Deficiencies in Vitamin D have been associated with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, can lead to weakened, brittle bones, and cause rickets in children and osteomalacia (bone softening) in adults.
When combined with calcium, it also aids in safeguarding older individuals against osteoporosis. The NHS and UK Government recommend that "everyone should consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement during the autumn and winter" due to reduced sunlight exposure. Despite this advice, the efficacy of vitamin D supplements has been recently challenged by Zoe founder, Professor Tim Spector.
Meanwhile, some individuals report that taking vitamin D supplements has been transformative for their health . If you're wondering whether you might be deficient in vitamin D and need to take action, Shona Wilkinson, the lead nutritionist at ethical supplement company Dr Vegan , highlights certain signs and symptoms to watch out for, reports Surrey Live . Shona advises: "You've likely heard about the importance of getting enough vitamin D, especially during the winter.
Despite this, many people still don't fully understand the role it plays in our bodies, a.
