The numerous benefits of Vitamin D3 are becoming more well known and its involvement in many of the body’s vital processes is now being recognized.

But you’re probably wondering:

Should I be taking it?

We’ve put together a ‘Guide to Vitamin D3’ to answer this and the everyday questions that customers ask:

Your Guide :

– What is Vitamin D3 and What Does it Do?

– What is it Good For?

– Where does it Come From?

– Why is it Better than Vitamin D2?

– Is Vitamin D3 Vegan?

– What is a Healthy Level of Vitamin D3?

– How Much of it Should I Take a Day?

– And finally do I Still Need to Take Vitamin D3 in Summer?

Want to buy now? Visit our online store to for a selection of  Vitamin D3 supplements, including tablets, capsules and liquids.

What is Vitamin D3 and What Does it Do?

It is, sometimes known as the ‘sunshine vitamin’ is produced naturally in the skin when it is exposed to sunlight. You can also get it through certain foods.

Although classified as a vitamin, D3 cleverly transforms into a hormone in the body . In the same Vein this is perhaps one of the most vital functions that Vitamin D3 performs.

It has multiple roles in the body. It assists in:

• Firstly promoting healthy bones and teeth
• Secondly supporting immune, brain, and nervous system health
• Thirdly regulating insulin levels and supporting diabetes management
• Additionally supporting lung function and cardiovascular health
• Finally influencing the expression of genes involved in cancer development

What is Vitamin D3 Good For?

Aside from regulating the amount of calcium and phosphorus in our blood, it benefits our overall health and well being.

Getting sufficient Vitamin D contributes to the health of our immune systems, improving resistance against certain diseases. It also plays a role in the process of cell division as well as ensuring the maintenance of healthy bones and teeth.

Furthermore it is essential for children’s development, playing a vital role in the normal growth and maintenance of their bones and immune systems. 

Where does It Come From?

Vitamin D comes from three major sources:

The Sun

Whilst we can get Vitamin D3 from sunlight, it’s a balance between staying safe in the sun and getting enough of it.

It’s also difficult to know exactly how much time you need to spend in sun.

Food

Vitamin D rich foods include oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, herring and sardines, as well as red meat and eggs.

It is also added to all infant formula milk, as well as some breakfast cereals, fat spreads and non-dairy milk alternatives. Although may only be added in small amounts.

Supplements – Natures Bounty Vitamin D

Get ready for the science: With the introduction of Vitamin D3 Pills Natures Bounty has set a new scientific standard for preparations sold as health supplements.

It has excellent bioavailability in the oral supplement sector.

The unique composition and quality of this supplement is essential for the bioavailability of the compound.

Why is It Better Than Vitamin D2?

Vitamin D comes in two forms, Vitamin D2 – ergocalciferol, and Vitamin D3 – cholecalciferol. Some controversy has arisen whether Vitamin D2 is as active as vitamin D3 when it’s ingested.

Is It Vegan?

So, because it is almost always found in animal products, it can be difficult for vegans to ensure they maintain adequate levels in their diets.

It is important to be aware that some types of vitamin D are not vegan-friendly. Almost all of its supplements are made from cholecalciferol derived from lanolin, which is extracted from sheep’s wool.

Here comes the good news:

Ideal for Vegetarians and Vegans, the SunVit-D3 Vegan Vitamin D is approved by the Vegetarian Society UK.

What is a Healthy Level of Vitamin D3?

Generally the recommended daily maintenance dosage is 400IU daily (or 10mcg) as outlined in the NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidance.

Want to know the best part:

Natures Bounty Vitamin D3 is currently the only Vitamin D3 supplement with substantial scientific evidence on both efficacy and safety. With the introduction of SunVit-D3 preparations, Natures Bounty can provide customers with one of the most superior products available.

Dosage

People can measure vitamin D intake in micrograms (mcg) or international units (IU). One microgram of vitamin D is equal to 40 IU.

Similarly the recommended daily intakes of vitamin D are as follows:

• Infants 0–12 months: 400 IU (10 mcg).
• Children 1–18 years: 600 IU (15 mcg).
• Adults up to 70 years: 600 IU (15 mcg).
• Adults over 70 years: 800 IU (20 mcg).
• Pregnant or lactating women: 600 IU (15 mcg)

When should you take It:

Generally take one or two Vit-D3 1000 IU Tablets per day with the main meal. Once the body has the correct levels of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D, it will flush out any that is not needed.

Sources of vitamin D

Getting sufficient sunlight is the best way to help the body produce enough vitamin D. Most importantly plentiful food sources of vitamin D include:

• fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna
• egg yolks
• cheese
• beef liver
• mushrooms
• fortified milk
• fortified cereals and juices

Am I Getting Enough Vitamin D?

Generally everybody is different and individual vitamin D levels can vary depending on the time of year, your job (i.e. how much daytime you spend indoors), your clothing and even your skin type.

Unsure about your levels of vitamin D? There’s a simple blood test you can take at home. However you should follow the instructions included in the blood test kit.