Children are increasingly spending time indoors away from natural light and sunshine, placing their health at risk. In conjunction with Vitamin D Awareness Week (19 to 25 October) Dr David Mantle, medical adviser at nutrition brand Pharma Nord gives some timely advice.
Am I deficient?
The UK government recommends vitamin D3 supplementation for several key groups of people, including all pregnant and breast-feeding mothers, young children from six months to five years old, people over 65 years of age and those with low or no exposure to the sun.
That said, a high quality supplement is advisable for a wide range of people, particularly during the winter months. Those most affected by deficiency include people living in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Northern England due to a lack of strong sun exposure in these areas.
Why do we need vitamin D?
Vitamin D is essential for bone development, helping our bodies to absorb calcium. This is particularly important for children who need to build up their bone reserves for later life. A deficiency in vitamin D can result in bone and muscle pain, poor bone mineralisation (softer bones) and a greater risk of osteoporosis and fractures as we age.
A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to rickets, a bone-softening disease affecting children in their early years.
Vitamin D may play a role in preventing some chronic diseases in later life, including those involving the immune and cardiovascular system.
There is some evidence to suggest that vitamin D may be more effective at cold and flu prevention than vitamin C. The "sunshine" vitamin has anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties, helping to boost the immune system.
Do you suffer from tiredness, fatigue, low mood or depression? You could be vitamin D deficient.
Tips for topping up!
Try taking a vitamin D3 supplement such as Pharma Nord's Bio-Vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 is identical to the form produced naturally in the skin. Oil-based supplements are better absorbed by your body so avoid dry, chalky tablets. The tiny capsules are easy to swallow and blister packed for freshness.
Add oily fish such as salmon, fresh tuna or sardines to your diet. Dairy products are a source of vitamin D too.
Aim for ten minutes of sun exposure to your bare skin once or twice a day without sunscreen.
Special offer
Visit Pharma Nord and use discount code VITD15 to receive 15 per cent off Bio-Vitamin D3.
For free nutritional advice, contact Pharma Nord on 01670 534 900 or info@multivits.co.uk
Please consult your GP before taking a nutritional supplement for the first time.