Vitamin D is a nutrient that is much discussed, especially now that autumn is in full swing. Vitamin D is naturally present in sunlight, and as it shows itself less and less, a deficiency is lurking. Using a vitamin D supplement, such as vitamin D drops, can then offer a solution. In this blog, we delve deeper into the importance of vitamin D, the symptoms of a deficiency, and vitamin D in food. We also discuss why vitamin D drops are a convenient solution to ensure you get enough of this vitamin.
What is vitamin D?
Vitamin D, also called the 'sunshine vitamin', is produced when our skin is exposed to sunlight. This vitamin is essential for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus in our body, which is necessary for strong bones and teeth.
In addition, vitamin D plays a role in supporting the immune system, promoting muscle function, and contributing to the process of cell renewal.
A vitamin D deficiency
Recent research from the Dutch National Food Consumption Survey has shown that as many as 92% of all Dutch people do not get enough vitamin D*. One of the reasons is a lack of sun exposure – sunlight is the main source of vitamin D. Especially during the autumn and winter months, the sun's strength in the Netherlands is not strong enough, which means that the skin cannot produce enough vitamin D from sunlight.
Also, if you have dark skin, or if you protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a hat, or covered clothing, your skin cannot produce enough vitamin D from sunlight.
Food or a vitamin D supplement?
Fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin D (but also vitamins A, E, and K) can be stored in the tissues of your body. This allows you to build up an internal reserve if you take them sufficiently and regularly.
A vitamin D deficiency will therefore not easily occur. This only happens if you take in too little from sunlight or food over a longer period.
Vitamin D from food
Although vitamin D is primarily produced by exposure to sunlight, you can also find it in certain foods. Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna are excellent natural sources of vitamin D. Eggs, mushrooms, and fortified dairy products also contain vitamin D.
Vitamin D supplement
If you live in an area where sunlight is scarce or you are in the autumn or winter season and find it difficult to get enough vitamin D from food, then vitamin D drops or capsules are a convenient way to ensure that you can still build up a sufficient supply of this important nutrient!
* https://www.gezondheidsraad.nl/documenten/adviezen/2012/09/26/evaluatie-van-de- voedingsnormen-voor-vitamine-d
