Ireland’s northerly latitude means we don’t get enough sunlight for much of the year to produce adequate Vitamin D naturally. As a result, Vitamin D deficiency is extremely common in Ireland — and many people don’t even know they have it.
What is Vitamin D and Why Do We Need It?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in:
- Bone and teeth health (it helps your body absorb calcium)
- Immune system function
- Muscle strength
- Mood regulation and mental wellbeing
Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency
Common signs that you may be low in Vitamin D include:
- Persistent tiredness or fatigue
- Bone or muscle pain and weakness
- Low mood or depression, especially in winter
- Getting sick frequently
- Hair loss
- Slow wound healing
Because these symptoms overlap with many other conditions, the only reliable way to confirm Vitamin D deficiency is with a blood test.
Who is at Risk?
In Ireland, almost everyone is at some risk from October to April when sunlight is too weak to produce Vitamin D. Higher risk groups include:
- People aged 65+
- People with darker skin tones
- Those who spend most of their time indoors
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women
- People with obesity
What Vitamin D Supplement Should I Take in Ireland?
The HSE recommends that everyone in Ireland take Vitamin D 15 micrograms (600 IU) daily, particularly from October to April. Many adults choose to take it year-round.
Popular Vitamin D supplements we stock at Laois Pharmacy include:
- Pharma Nord BioActive Vitamin D3
- Vitabiotics Ultra Vitamin D
- Holland & Barrett Vitamin D3 1000 IU
- Udo’s Choice Vitamin D3
Visit us at 1 Dunamaise House, Portlaoise and our pharmacists can advise you on the right dose and form of Vitamin D for your needs.