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Vitamin D has an interesting history. In the early 20th century, rickets was widespread in the United Kingdom. The condition led Sir Edward Mellanby to build on the work of Professor Elmer McCollum, who with Marguerite Davis had discovered the first vitamin — vitamin A — in 1913. Mellanby's research identified a second factor in the diet, which he named vitamin D.
Vitamin D is unusual among vitamins because the body can make its own. When skin is exposed to sunlight, it produces vitamin D — which is why it's often called the "sunshine vitamin". Most other vitamins have to come from food or supplements.
Because the body relies on sunlight to make vitamin D, levels can fall during the darker months. In the UK, the sun isn't strong enough between roughly October and March for the skin to make vitamin D, so the body draws on stores built up over summer. For some people, particularly those who spend a lot of time indoors or cover their skin, getting enough through sunlight alone can be difficult at any time of year.
This is why awareness of vitamin D has grown in recent years, across all age groups.
Public health advice in the UK is that everyone should consider taking a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms (400 IU) of vitamin D during the autumn and winter months. Some groups — including people with little sun exposure — are advised to consider it all year round. Some research suggests higher intakes may help maintain healthy levels, but it's sensible to follow the official guidance unless your GP advises otherwise.
Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system, to normal muscle function, and to the maintenance of normal bones and teeth — which is why it's one of the most widely recommended supplements in the UK.
Vitamin D comes in two main forms: D2 (ergocalciferol) and D3 (cholecalciferol). D3 is the form the body produces naturally from sunlight, and it's generally considered the more effective form for raising and maintaining vitamin D levels. That's the form we use across our vitamin D range.
One thing worth knowing: most D3 is derived from lanolin (sheep's wool), so standard D3 supplements are not suitable for vegans. Vegan D3 made from lichen is available as an alternative.
This article is general information and not medical advice. If you think your vitamin D level may be low, or you're considering a higher dose, speak to your GP or pharmacist.
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