Vitamin D-The Sunshine Vitamin

Vitamin D-A Worthy Supplement

Vitamin D is also known as ‘the sunshine vitamin’ and supports the maintenance of bones and teeth, as well as the proper functioning of the immune system. Vitamin D also contributes to:

-normal absorption/utilisation of calcium and phosphorus

-normal blood calcium levels

-maintenance of normal bones and teeth

-maintenance of normal muscle function

-normal function of the immune system

-process of cell division and vitamin D is needed for normal growth and development of bone in children.

Vitamin D deficiency can give the following symptoms:

-difficulty thinking clearly

-bone pain

-frequent bone fractures

-muscle weakness

-soft bones that may result in deformities

-unexplained fatigue.

Vitamin D is not found, in abundance, naturally in foods which means that not enough sunshine means not enough vitamin D, and hence issues with widespread deficiency in the UK. The amount of sunlight (UV) in our winter months is insufficient and over the winter we need to draw on our bodily reserves.

There are some foods rich in vitamin D, primarily oily fish such as salmon, eggs , liver and fortified cereals. However because of the quantities needed by the body it is very difficult to get enough from diet alone.

Vitamin D supplements are one of only a very few supplements that are backed up by scientific research so it is worth considering to add as a supplement, especially during the autumn and winter months the UK.

A daily vitamin D intake of 1,000–4,000 IU (25–100 mcg) should be enough to ensure optimal blood levels for most people.

At The Thames Clinic we recommend a UK vitamin and supplement company called Cytoplan to source your supplements and look after your body over the winter months.