NHS Doctor Urges All Brits to Take Vitamin D Supplement From October to Boost Immunity
London, UK – As colder months approach, an NHS doctor is advising all Britons to begin taking a daily vitamin D supplement starting in October to bolster their immune systems adn maintain overall health. The recommendation comes as daylight hours shorten, reducing the body’s natural ability to produce the vital nutrient from sunlight.
The doctor’s advice echoes growing awareness of widespread vitamin D deficiency, particularly during autumn and winter. “Avoid the sun,” the doctor reportedly said, ”and it’s also wise to take the supplement all year around, as vitamin D is so critically important. When you don’t get it from the sun, you need to get it from somewhere else.”
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in supporting healthy bones, teeth, and muscles by aiding the absorption of calcium and phosphorus.A lack of vitamin D can lead to bone problems like rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults, and can also negatively impact immune function.
The NHS currently advises that everyone should consider a daily vitamin D supplement during the autumn and winter months. Furthermore, specific groups are recommended to supplement year-round, including all children aged one to four, and all babies (unless they are consuming over 500ml of infant formula daily).
According to the NHS website, “government advice is that everyone should consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement during the autumn and winter.” While some reports have suggested a link between vitamin D and reduced risk of COVID-19, the NHS states there isn’t currently enough evidence to support using it solely for prevention or treatment.
Between late March or early April and the end of September, most people can typically obtain sufficient vitamin D through sunlight and a balanced diet. Though,the NHS notes that obtaining enough vitamin D from food alone is arduous,making supplementation a sensible precaution during the darker months. A daily supplement containing 10 micrograms of vitamin D is recommended for everyone, including pregnant and breastfeeding women, throughout autumn and winter.
For more information on vitamin D,visit the NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-d/. Individuals with concerns about taking supplements should consult their GP before making any changes to their routine.
