“Vitamin D supplements are unnecessary if you eat well”
In the UK, it's nearly impossible to get enough vitamin D from diet alone, especially in winter.
The Full Story
This myth can be dangerous because it may lead people to avoid supplementation when they actually need it. Vitamin D is unique among vitamins because our main source isn't food - it's sunlight.
Only about 10% of our vitamin D comes from food. The rest is produced by our skin when exposed to UVB sunlight. However, in the UK, the sun isn't strong enough from October to March to produce vitamin D, regardless of how long you spend outdoors.
Even eating a "perfect" diet rich in vitamin D foods (oily fish, eggs, fortified foods) cannot provide enough vitamin D during UK winters. This is why Public Health England recommends that everyone consider a vitamin D supplement during autumn and winter months.
The Facts
- Only 10% of vitamin D comes from food
- UK sunlight is insufficient from October to March
- NHS recommends 10 micrograms (400 IU) daily supplement in winter
- 1 in 5 UK adults have low vitamin D levels
- Very few foods naturally contain vitamin D
- Even fortified foods only provide small amounts
What the Evidence Says
Government recommendation
Public Health England officially recommends everyone in the UK takes a vitamin D supplement during autumn and winter.
Latitude matters
The UK is at 50-60°N latitude, where the sun angle is too low in winter months for skin to produce vitamin D.
Diet alone is insufficient
You would need to eat several portions of oily fish daily to meet vitamin D needs through diet alone - this isn't realistic for most people.
Your Health Matters to Us
The information on this website is designed to support, not replace, the relationship between you and your healthcare providers. Always seek the advice of your GP or other qualified health provider with any questions about your health.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, visit A&E, or call 999 immediately. We're here to help you stay informed on your health journey.
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