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Healthy Eating & Vitamin D

What is Vitamin D?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin found in oily fish and all dairy products. However, it is unlikely that you will be able to consume sufficient vitamin D (400 IU) through diet alone; the main part of the body's supply is formed by the skin's exposure to ultraviolet rays in sunlight (a great excuse to lounge around in the sunshine - sensibly of course!). Vitamin D plays an important part in the maintenance of healthy teeth and bones because it facilitates the absorption of calcium and phosphorus into the body.

What can Vitamin D do for me?

• Keep bones strong and prevent osteoporosis
• Boost the immune system
• Maintain strong muscles and bones

What indicates a deficiency of Vitamin D?

• Poor growth
• Bone deformities (e.g. Rickets/ Osteomalacia)
• Constipation
• Muscle weakness

Who particularly needs Vitamin D?

• Elderly people; they have a reduced ability to produce vitamin D in response to sunlight
• Anyone housebound or institutionalised with a limited exposure to sunlight
• Pregnant/ breastfeeding women
• Vegans; they do not consume any food sources of vitamin D

Foods rich in Vitamin D