THE NHS URGES PEOPLE TO TAKE VITAMIN D FOR THIS TIME OF YEAR

The National Health Service (NHS) has urged daily Vitamin D intake for everyone between October and March.

On X (formerly Twitter), the NHS stated: 'Between October and March, we cannot make enough Vitamin D from sunlight, so to keep your bones and muscles healthy, it's best to take a daily 10 microgram Vitamin D supplement. Vitamin D is available from most pharmacies and retailers.'

The NHS also outlined precise details regarding the necessary dosage. 'Children aged one year and over, and adults, need 10 micrograms ($\text{mcg}$) of Vitamin D a day,' the NHS explained. 'This includes pregnant and breastfeeding women and people at risk of vitamin D deficiency. Babies from birth to one year old need $8.5-10$ micrograms of Vitamin D a day.'

On supplement packaging, this amount may be shown as '$\text{mcg}$' or '$\mu \text{g}$'. Alternatively, it may show International Units ($\text{IU}$). One microgram of Vitamin D is equal to 40 $\text{IU}$, so you should look for 400 $\text{IU}$.

However, consuming too much Vitamin D carries some risks. For most people, a daily intake of 10 micrograms should be adequate. The NHS warned: 'Do not take more than 100 micrograms (4,000 $\text{IU}$) of Vitamin D a day as it could be harmful. Children aged 1 to 10 should not take more than 50 micrograms (2,000 $\text{IU}$) a day. Babies under 12 months should not have more than 25 micrograms (1,000 $\text{IU}$) a day.'

Furthermore, some people may have health conditions that make taking these quantities risky. 'If in doubt, consult your doctor,' the NHS recommended. The NHS also advises a healthy diet and exercise."