Vitamin D
The vitamin that the body produces when exposed to sunlight — levels of which are often low in winter, and which plays a key role in bone health, muscle function and immunity.
Benefits
- Helps maintain normal bones
- Contributes to normal muscle function
- Supports the normal functioning of the immune system
Precautions
Fat-soluble vitamin: prolonged excessive intake may be toxic. Do not exceed the recommended doses without a blood test or medical advice.
Recommended dosage
1,000 to 2,000 IU a day, particularly from October to April
Did you know?
Routine vitamin D supplementation, either on its own or in combination with calcium, does not reduce the risk of fractures in older adults living at home.
What the studies say
This meta-analysis of 33 randomised clinical trials examined the association between supplementation with calcium, vitamin D, or a combination of both, and the incidence of fractures in older adults living in the community. The results showed no significant association between the use of these supplements and a reduced risk of hip, non-vertebral, vertebral or total fractures. These findings do not support the routine use of these supplements for the prevention of fractures in this population.
Zhao JG, Zeng XT, Wang J, Liu L. — (2017) — View the source study
For information only: not a substitute for medical advice. Dietary supplements are not a replacement for a varied, balanced diet. Learn more