Vitamin D keeps our bones, teeth and muscles healthy, but in Ireland we have a seasonal problem. From October to early March the sun sits too low for our skin to make any, so many people run low over winter. That is why the HSE advises most of us to take a supplement.
Who should take it, and how much?
- Teenagers and adults under 65: the HSE advises 15 micrograms a day from Halloween through the winter.
- Adults aged 65 and older: the Department of Health recommends 15 micrograms every day, all year round, for bone and muscle health.
- If you are rarely outdoors, or usually keep your skin covered, you likely need it year-round too.
One key safety point from the HSE: adults and children over 11 should not take more than 100 micrograms a day.
Choosing a supplement
A simple daily vitamin D3 supplement does the job. We stock Vitabiotics Ultra D3 among others. Strengths vary, so if you are not sure which suits you, ask us and we will match it to the HSE recommendation.
Who is most at risk of being low?
The HSE flags some groups as more likely to be deficient: older adults, people with darker skin tone, anyone who covers up or stays mostly indoors, and during pregnancy. Low levels can be silent, but tiredness and bone or muscle aches can be clues. Your GP can check your level with a blood test if needed.
Ask us
Message us or pop in and we will point you to the right vitamin D for you and your family.
Sources
- HSE. Vitamin D. hse.ie
- Department of Health / gov.ie. Vitamin D advice for people aged 65 and older. gov.ie
General information, not a substitute for advice from your pharmacist or GP. Reviewed by the pharmacy team at Laois Pharmacy.
\n
Related reading: Vitamin D Deficiency in Ireland — Symptoms, Causes and What to Take
