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Vitamin D is
required for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from foods for the
formation and maintenance of strong bones. It also has a function in the immune
system which helps to ward off infections. Indeed, there has also been some
research to suggest that vitamin D could help to limit the severity of
Coronavirus. IT was certainly one of the many items that Donald Trump was given
to treat Coronavirus.
Food sources are
oily fish such as salmon and mackerel, egg yolks, margarines and spreads (which
have it added), fortified breakfast cereals, red meat and liver.
Vitamin D is
sometimes called the “sunshine vitamin” as it can be produced by the skin
during the Summer months. During the winter or bad weather, or if you do not go
out of doors much or cover yourself then a source is needed. It was advised
that vulnerable people such as older people, housebound individuals plus young
children should take a supplement.
However, this year
Public Health England (PHE) and
the NHS in the light of Coronavirus plus lockdowns has updated this
long-standing advice about vitamin D.
They state that “everyone
should supplement with 10 micrograms daily, not just ‘at-risk’ groups”. Only 10 micrograms are needed and most over
the counter supplements contain this and having looked at them in supermarkets
and shops most cost below £2 for a month’s supply. Unless advised by your
doctor do not take additional amounts.
Therefore, with a further lockdown plus winter weather it
could be well worth considering adding this to the shopping basket for your
family and also for older friends and relatives.
