Overview
- An HSIS expert review reports large intake gaps across age groups in the UK and finds about one fifth of people have low blood vitamin D.
- NHS guidance recommends a daily 10 microgram vitamin D supplement from October to March when sunlight exposure is limited.
- Deficiency is linked to muscle weakness, falls and fragility fractures, with direct UK fracture care costs estimated at £3.3 billion by 2025 and potentially £5.89 billion by 2030.
- Clinicians caution against unguided high-dose use that can cause harmful calcium buildup and advise 25‑hydroxy vitamin D testing, 6–12 month monitoring, and consideration of magnesium and vitamin K2.
- Because winter sun is scarce and natural food sources are few, experts highlight fortified foods, oily fish, eggs and brief safe midday sun exposure, with higher‑risk groups urged to be especially vigilant.