Best vitamin d brand

Vitamin D is essential for a wide range of physiological processes and optimal health. During childhood and adolescence, adequate levels of vitamin D are needed to support cell growth, skeletal formation, and growth. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin found in very few foods. Its main source is fortified foods and biologically active food supplements. You can find best vitamin d brand sumplements that popular.

Top best vitamins d brand supplements

Some people need additional intake of vitamin D. It is not always possible to compensate for its deficiency only with food and sun exposure. In this case, drugs and dietary supplements from pharmacies may be useful. In this review, we’ve rounded up the best vitamin D brand supplements for kids and adults.

1. NatureWise Vitamin D3
NatureWise Vitamin D3

  • Provides 5, 000 IU of Vitamin D3 per serving, the daily requirement recommended by the Vitamin D Council to restore depleted vitamin D levels in adults with minimal sun exposure.
  • NatureWise Vitamin D3 gives you the same natural, biologically active form of Vitamin D that your body produces naturally from sunlight — but without the risky UVB exposure.
  • Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that requires dietary fat for the body to absorb it. Our best-selling Vitamin D3 is delivered in certified organic olive oil, a healthy fat source that improves bioavailability.
  • Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for healthy bones, teeth, muscle function, and immune system support. The Mayo Clinic estimates that 25%-50% of the general population may be Vitamin D deficient.
  • These Vitamin D3 immune support and bone health supplements are gluten-free and non-GMO.
  • Third-party tested for purity and potency. Packaging may vary due to high demand, same great product, and ingredients.


2. Vegan Vitamin D3
Vegan Vitamin D3

  • Vegan D3 delivers 5000iu/125mcg of the same biologically active form of vitamin D produced in the body as a result of direct sunlight without the risk of unprotected UVB exposure.
  • The only Non-GMO Verified, Vegan Certified, Carrageenan free Vitamin D3 softgel available.
  • Vitamin D3 is fat-soluble and difficult for the body to absorb if not taken with a fat. To help aid with absorption we blend our product with Coconut Oil.
  • Featuring Vitamin D3 derived from Lichen in a 100% plant-based softgel capsule. Free of Animal Ingredients such as Lanolin and Bovine.



3. Nature’s Bounty Vitamin D3
Nature’s Bounty Vitamin D3

  • Immune support: 240-count, 5000IU Vitamin D3 Softgels for immune health.
  • Strong, healthy bones: In addition to immune support, getting a sufficient amount of Vitamin D is critical to building and maintaining strong bones in adults. It is essential for calcium absorption to help support healthy bones.
  • Vitamin D3 supplements by Nature’s Bounty contain the same form of Vitamin D that is naturally formed in the body through exposure to sunshine.
  • Nature’s Bounty is committed to safety and purity in all our supplements.
  • Vitamin D3 Softgels are non-GMO, gluten- and sugar-free, and contain no artificial colors, or sweeteners.

4. DDROPS Liquid Vitamin D3 for children
DDROPS Liquid Vitamin D3 for children

  • The American brand Ddrops produces Liquid Vitamin D3 for children. One serving (1 drop) of this supplement contains 10 mcg (400 IU) of cholecalciferol. In addition to vitamin D3, coconut oil is present in the composition. This product is free of preservatives, colorants and flavor enhancers. It is designed for babies from birth to 1 year old who eats breast milk.
  • This Ddrops Liquid Vitamin D3 is sold in a small bottle (2.5 ml) made of dark glass with a built-in dispenser that accurately measures 0.028 ml. Oily drops are odorless and tasteless. It is recommended to place 1 drop daily on the mother’s nipple or a clean surface (nipple, toe). The child should suck on this medication within 30 seconds. Or you can add a drop of the drug to milk, juice, porridge.
  • Parents in the reviews note that such vitamin D is very convenient to give to children. Due to the oily base, the drop does not run off the nipple. Kids do not show discontent and do not make it clear that the drops are unpleasant for them. Liquid Vitamin D3 does not provoke unwanted body reactions in the form of allergic reactions. One bottle is enough for almost 3 months of use.



5. Centrum Multivitamin for Men
Centrum Multivitamin for Men

  • One 250 count bottle of Centrum Multivitamins for Men, Multivitamin/Multimineral Supplement with Vitamin D3, B Vitamins and Antioxidants
  • Specially formulated metabolism, immune support, and energy supplements for men
    Multipurpose vitamin for men that contains Centrum’s highest levels of Vitamin D3 for muscle health support
  • Contains vitamins B, C, D, and E, essential micronutrients and antioxidants such as zinc
    Immunity and energy multivitamin available in easy-to-take tablet form made with non-GMO, gluten-free ingredients
  • Each bottle contains 250 tablets, providing enough daily men’s multivitamins for about four months
  • Take one daily multivitamin for men with food


6. Garden of Life Vitamin D
Garden of Life Vitamin D

  • WHOLE FOOD NUTRITION: Our Vitamin Code Raw D3 is whole food nutrition, specifically formulated with 2,000 IU of Vitamin D3.
  • BONE HEALTH: This RAW food-created Vitamin D3 provides bone and joint support, colon and digestive support, memory & concentration, breast & prostate health, proper cell replication and immune system support.
  • NATURAL VITAMIN D: Easily metabolized Vitamin D3 is preferred over D2 since it’s in the form that comes from the most natural source possible–the sun and our food.
  • VEGETARIAN VITAMIN: Our real food D3 vitamin is Non-GMO, RAW, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy Free and Kosher, with No Binders or Fillers.


7. NOW Foods Supplements, Vitamin D-3
NOW Foods Supplements, Vitamin D-3

  • High efficiency
  • Structural support
  • Helps Maintain Bone Strength
  • Supports dental health
  • Does not contain GMOs
  • Food supplement
  • Kosher – Contains Gelatin
  • Vitamins
  • Family business founded in 1968
  • Complies with GMP quality standard


8. Nature Made Extra Strength Vitamin D3
Nature Made Extra Strength Vitamin D3 5000 IU (125 mcg) Softgels

  • For a limited time, you may receive either bottle while we update our packaging. Both have the same great product inside. Based on new FDA regulations, you may also notice a change in the unit of measure and/or daily value for certain products.
  • Contains a 90-day supply of Nature Made Extra Strength Vitamin D3 5000IU (125 mcg) Softgels, 90 soft gels per bottle.
  • Vitamin D supports bone, teeth, muscle, and immune health.
  • This is a high dose vitamin D product for those with higher vitamin D needs and/or deficiency, as determined by a healthcare professional. Consult with your healthcare professional before use. Take one softgel daily with a meal. For easier swallowing, take with water before and during ingestion.
  • These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

9. Doctor’s Best Vitamin D3 5000 IU

Doctor's Best Vitamin D3 5000IU

  • Doctor’s Best Vitamin D3 supports healthy bone density and structure; Vitamin D is required for optimal calcium absorption.
  • Vitamin D3 enhances and regulates immune function, supports optimal cardiovascular function and enhances cellular function.
  • Approximately 75% of Americans are deficient in vitamin D.
  • Doctor’s Best Vitamin D3 is available in 1000IU, 2000IU and 5000IU strengths.
  • Non-GMO and Gluten Free.


10. Vitamin D3 5,000 IU – Dr. Approved Vitamin D Supplement for Immune Support

Vitamin D3 5,000 IU - Dr. Approved Vitamin D Supplement for Immune Support

  • It helps balance a healthy immune system, allowing it to function at optimal levels to help protect you all year round.
  • This product features organic olive oil to help enhance absorption and maximum efficacy to deliver essential whole body benefits including immune, heart, and bone health support.
  • Each and every batch of our Vitamin D3 soft gels are third party tested to guarantee the highest purity, potency, and premium quality. Our supplement has been manufactured without GMOs, soy, gluten, wheat, peanuts, milk, dairy, egg or shellfish. They also don’t include preservatives or artificial colorants.
  • Each one of our professional-grade supplements is created by a team of highly experienced healthcare professionals in the USA in a facility following strict GMP guidelines to ensure the greatest benefits are achieved. Plus, a licensed physician-reviewed and approved our Vitamin D3 formula, so you can feel confident in knowing you’re getting the highest quality Vitamin D3.

What is vitamin D for?

  • Many people know that vitamin D is essential for children and adults for healthy bone growth. Lack of this vitamin in children can cause rickets, and in adults, softening of the bones and an increased risk of fractures. Modern scientific research associates vitamin D deficiency with immune disorders, increased susceptibility to infections, the development of certain types of cancer, diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases. Vitamin D also plays a very important role in the regulation of reproductive processes in both women and men.
  • There are two forms of vitamin D. In humans, up to 90% of vitamin D3, or cholecalciferol, is formed in the skin under the influence of ultraviolet rays. Vitamin D2, or ergocalciferol, and partly cholecalciferol enter the human body with animal and plant foods, providing about 10–20% of the total amount of vitamin D. Then they transform first in the liver, and then in the kidneys to turn into active vitamin D – calcitriol – which does the main job. It is also worth noting that vitamin D, being fat-soluble, accumulates in the liver and adipose tissue. With its excess, symptoms of hypervitaminosis D can develop – convulsions in children, calcium deposition in organs and tissues, and the formation of kidney stones. The daily intake of this vitamin is 400-800 IU, depending on age.

What are the causes of vitamin D deficiency?

So, the main causes of vitamin D deficiency are:

  • Lack of direct sunlight.
  • Decreased synthesis of vitamin D in the skin (use of sunscreens, high pigmentation of the skin, winter, reduced daylight hours).
  • Lack of dietary foods containing vitamin D.
  • Chronic renal and hepatic failure.
  • The use of certain drugs (anticonvulsant, anti-tuberculosis).
  • Impaired absorption in bowel diseases.
  • Congenital diseases (for example, vitamin D-resistant rickets).
  • Obesity.

How is vitamin D deficiency manifested in children and adults?

  • Moderate vitamin D deficiency may not cause acute symptoms in children or adults. But in conditions of a deficiency of this vitamin, calcium consumed with food is poorly absorbed in the intestines. The body has to flush the mineral from the bones to maintain its level in the blood. If the deficit is not replenished, children develop external signs of rickets – muscle weakness, moodiness, change in the shape of the skull, violation of teething, constipation,.
  • In adults, the softening of the bones occurs – stimulation. It is characterized by constant pulling pain in the lower back and hip joints, pain in the heels, ribs, lower leg, hips, shoulder blade, forearms, and spine.
  • Muscle weakness leads to the fact that it becomes difficult for a person to get up from a chair, climb stairs, and a tendency to fall appears. There may be a feeling of “creeping” in the arms and legs – neuropathy. With very low serum calcium levels, seizures are possible.

What are the diagnostic methods for vitamin D deficiency?

  • To confirm the lack of vitamin D in the body, a blood test for vitamin D is used, while a level of 30-100 ng/ml is considered to be the norm. Let’s make a reservation right away that the norms differ in different countries and even in different laboratories. Deficiency can be indirectly confirmed by determining the level of calcium, phosphorus and the enzyme alkaline phosphatase in the blood, as well as calcium and phosphorus in the urine.

So what are the ways to prevent vitamin D deficiency?

  • To make up for the deficiency of vitamin D in the body, it is best to spend more time in the sun – expose your face and hands to the sun’s rays for 15 minutes 2-3 times a week. Each such procedure provides the production of approximately 1000 IU of vitamin D. But the formation of vitamin D in the skin depends on the angle of the sun and, thus, on the geographical latitude, season, time of day. Most of the vitamin is produced when the sun is at its zenith. That is, from 11.00 to 14.00 – just at the time when most people are trying to hide in the shadows. It is worth noting that in countries with cloudy climates or cities covered in smog, it is impossible to synthesize enough vitamin D through sun exposure. Melanin, which is produced by the skin to protect it from UV radiation, also interferes with the production of vitamin D. Therefore, tanning,
  • As for tanning salons, initially, they were developed only for medical purposes and were always used under the supervision of doctors to stimulate the production of vitamin D. However, today, due to the high incidence of skin cancer, this type of treatment is not used. WHO, for example, pays special attention to the complete ban on tanning salons for children under 18 years of age. Tanning enthusiasts should keep in mind that many lamps do not give ultraviolet A (320-400 nm), and not B (280-320 nm), not the same as that of the sun. Therefore, in a tanning bed, you can get a dark complexion, but not replenish vitamin D reserves.
  • An alternative to sunbathing is taking vitamin D preparations. Medicines contain it in one of two forms: vitamin D 2 – produced with the help of yeast, from plant sources; vitamin D 3 – synthesized from animal products, it is not suitable for vegetarians.
  • Newborns and infants are a special risk group. In the first months of life, the child is actively growing and developing, so even healthy children need additional intake of vitamin D to prevent rickets. Moreover, most often, due to a vitamin D deficiency in a nursing mother, breastfed children suffer. Therefore, the optimal prevention of rickets will be breastfeeding in combination with additional administration of vitamin D. Specific prophylaxis of rickets is carried out with vitamin D in a daily dose for healthy term infants of 400-500 IU. This dose is prescribed from 2 weeks of life every day from September to May, as well as in the summer months with insufficient insolation. It is safe and does not lead to excess accumulation of vitamin D, even if the level is normal. Healthy children artificially fed with adapted milk formulas that contain vitamin D, its additional introduction is not required. Most pediatricians recommend prophylactic vitamin D intake for up to 3 years.
  • Vitamin D supply of pregnant women is very important. Most often, a sufficient amount of it is contained in special vitamin complexes. You should carefully study the composition of the drug you have chosen and do not take additional vitamin D without consulting a doctor.
  • To ensure the health of bone and muscle tissue between the ages of 19 and 65, prophylactic vitamin D supplementation is recommended during the low insolation season – from October to April. At the age of 19-50, the dose of vitamin D is 600 IU / day, over 50 years old – 800-1000 IU / day.
  • Therapeutic doses of vitamin D can reach 20,000 IU or more, are used to treat serious deficiency conditions and only on the recommendation of the attending physician.
  • In children and adults with obesity, the doses used should be higher, since vitamin D is stored in adipose tissue.
  • Unfortunately, very few foods contain vitamin D. These are egg yolks, beef liver and some fish and seafood in which it is found in small quantities, such as salmon, sardines, mackerel, cod liver, tuna, swordfish. The richest in vitamin D is fish oil made from cod liver. Nature intended that you get this vitamin through exposure to the sun, and a lesser extent from food sources. Vegetables do not contain vitamin D at all, so there are no natural sources of this vitamin for vegetarians. In many parts of the world, the main food sources of vitamin D are milk and dairy products, margarine, and vegetable oils fortified with vitamin D; in 17 countries of the world, it is mandatory to enrich margarine with this vitamin. Similar products containing dietary supplements
  • It should be noted that the absorption of vitamin D in the intestine significantly depends on the presence of other substances (fats, bile acids). It also depends on the type of the human diet. Deficiency of bile acids leads to impaired absorption of vitamin D. It is important to understand that some food products make it difficult or even block the absorption of vitamin D. These include margarine, mayonnaise, fried bacon, sausage with fat, pork fat, fatty cakes, and pastries.

In conclusion, it is worth noting that recommendations for prophylactic vitamin D supplementation vary from country to country and from region to region. New scientific studies are constantly being published – some are wary of taking vitamin D, others recommend starting the intake right now at 2000-6000 IU. Earlier it was said about the irreparable harm of the sun’s rays, due to the risk of developing skin cancer, and today they say that insolation is necessary in small quantities. Therefore, do not rush to extremes – moderation has always been the best recommendation.

The best vitamin d supplement

Vitamin D is found in some foods and is a nutrient needed to maintain strong bones and for good health. We recommend the best vitamin d supplements. Vitamin D maintains strong bones by helping the body absorb calcium (one of the main components of bone) from foods and supplements. People who take too little vitamin D can develop a disease that softens, thins, and becomes brittle. The disease is called “rickets” in children and “osteomalacia” in adults.

Top 10 best vitamins d supplements

Vitamin D supplement is best for helps the body absorb calcium and strengthens bones and teeth. As you get older, your bones gradually weaken. Make strong bones with vitamin D.

1. NatureWise Vitamin D3

NatureWise Vitamin D3

  • HIGHEST POTENCY: Provides 5, 000 IU of Vitamin D3 per serving, the daily requirement recommended by the Vitamin D Council to restore depleted vitamin D levels in adults with minimal sun exposure.*
  • MOST ACTIVE FORM: NatureWise Vitamin D3 gives you the same natural, biologically active form of Vitamin D that your body produces naturally from sunlight — but without the risky UVB exposure.
  • SUPERIOR ABSORPTION: Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that requires dietary fat for the body to absorb it. Our best-selling Vitamin D3 is delivered in certified organic olive oil, a healthy fat source that improves bioavailability.
  • AN ESSENTIAL VITAMIN: Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for healthy bones, teeth, muscle function, and immune system support. The Mayo Clinic estimates that 25%-50% of the general population may be Vitamin D deficient.
  • PURE & NATURAL: These Vitamin D3 immune support and bone health supplements are gluten-free and non-GMO. Third-party tested for purity and potency. Packaging may vary due to high demand, same great product, and ingredients.

2. Vegan Vitamin D3

Vegan Vitamin D3

  • THE SUNSHINE VITAMIN: Vegan D3 delivers 5000iu/125mcg of the same biologically active form of vitamin D produced in the body as a result of direct sunlight without the risk of unprotected UVB exposure.
  • BETTER THAN THE REST: The only Non-GMO Verified, Vegan Certified, Carrageenan free Vitamin D3 soft gel available.
  • COCONUT OIL: Vitamin D3 is fat-soluble and difficult for the body to absorb if not taken with a fat. To help aid with absorption we blend our product with Virgin Organic Coconut Oil.
  • PLANT-BASED: Featuring Vitamin D3 derived from Lichen in a 100% plant-based soft gel capsule. Free of Animal Ingredients such as Lanolin and Bovine.
  • MONEY BACK GUARANTEE: All Sports Research (SR) vitamins come with a 90 day Money Back Guarantee.

3. Vitamin D3 + K2

Vitamin D3 + K2

  • 2 Vitamins in 1 | 5000 IU (125mcg) of Vitamin D3 & 100 mcg of Vitamin K2 MK-7 for bone health and immune support.*
  • BETTER THAN THE REST | The only Non-GMO Verified, Vegan Certified, 100% Plant-Based Vitamin K2+D3 soft gel available. Free of Animal Ingredients such as Lanolin and Bovine Gelatin
  • PLANT-BASED INGREDIENTS | 100% Vegan Vitamin D3 from Lichen and Mk-7 Vitamin K2 from Chickpea encapsulated in a Non-GMO Tapioca soft gel capsule.
  • MADE WITH COCONUT OIL | Vitamin K2 & D3 are both fat-soluble and difficult for the body to absorb if not taken with a fat. To help absorption we blend our product with Coconut Oil.
  • MONEY BACK GUARANTEE | All Sports Research (SR) Vitamins & Supplements come with a 90 day Money Back Guarantee.

4. Nature Made Vitamin D3

Nature Made Vitamin D3

  • For a limited time, you may receive either bottle while we update our packaging. Both have the same great product inside. Based on new FDA regulations, you may also notice a change in the unit of measure and/or daily value for certain products.
  • Contains a 300-day supply of Nature Made Vitamin D 1000IU (25mcg), 300 softgels per bottle.
  • Vitamin D supports bone, teeth, muscle and immune health
  • Adults, take 1 softgel daily with water and a meal.
  • These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

5. Vitamin D by Nature’s Bounty for Immune Support

Vitamin D by Nature’s Bounty for Immune Support

  • Immune support: 350-count, 2000IU Vitamin D3 Softgels for immune health. Vitamin D by Nature’s Bounty may assist the immune system by helping to regulate T and B-lymphocytes. Vitamin D3 is a more potent form of Vitamin D
  • Strong, healthy bones: In addition to immune support, getting a sufficient amount of Vitamin D is critical to building and maintaining strong bones in adults. It is essential for calcium absorption to help support healthy bones. Nature’s Bounty Vitamin D3 Softgels supplement the Vitamin D your body needs for overall health
  • Year-round support: Vitamin D3 supplements by Nature’s Bounty contain the same form of Vitamin D that is naturally formed in the body through exposure to sunshine. Nature’s Bounty Vitamin D3 helps replicate the benefits of natural sunshine all year long
  • Purity is our priority: Nature’s Bounty is committed to safety and purity in all our supplements. Our rapid release Vitamin D3 Softgels are non-GMO, gluten- and sugar-free, and contain no artificial colors, or sweeteners
  • From the trusted wellness experts: Nature’s Bounty Vitamin D supplements are a product of 50 years of dedication to quality, consistency and scientific research to make vitamins and nutritional supplements of unrivaled excellence.

6. NOW Supplements, Vitamin D-3

NOW Supplements, Vitamin D-3

  • Highest potency/helps maintain strong bones: Vitamin D is normally obtained from the diet or produced by the skin from the ultraviolet energy of the sun. However, it is not abundant in food.
  • Sunshine vitamin/supports immune system: As more people avoid sun exposure, vitamin D supplementation becomes even more necessary to ensure that your body receives an adequate supply.
  • Classifications/certifications: Non-GMO, halal, kosher contains gelatin
  • GMP quality assured: NPA A-rated GMP certification means that every aspect of the NOW manufacturing process has been examined, including our laboratory/testing methods (for stability, potency, and product formulation).
  • Packaged in the USA by a family-owned and operated company since 1968.

7. Vitafusion, D3 Gummy

Vitafusion, D3 Gummy

8. Garden of Life Vitamin D

Garden of Life Vitamin D

  • RAW VITAMIN D3: The only RAW, whole food, vegetarian Vitamin D3 delivered in a whole food lipid base of high Omega-9, Organic Green Cracked Wall Chlorella – plus live probiotics and enzymes for optimal absorption and digestion.
  • WHOLE FOOD NUTRITION: Our Vitamin Code Raw D3 is whole food nutrition, specifically formulated with 2,000 IU of Vitamin D3.
  • BONE HEALTH: This RAW food-created Vitamin D3 provides bone and joint support, colon and digestive support, memory & concentration, breast & prostate health, proper cell replication and immune system support.
  • NATURAL VITAMIN D: Easily metabolized Vitamin D3 is preferred over D2 since it’s in the form that comes from the most natural source possible–the sun and our food
  • VEGETARIAN VITAMIN: Our real food D3 vitamin is Non-GMO, RAW, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy Free and Kosher, with No Binders or Fillers.

9. Thorne Research – Vitamin D-5000 – Vitamin D3 Supplement

Thorne Research - Vitamin D-5000 - Vitamin D3 Supplement

10. Zhou Vitamin K2 (MK7) with D3 Supplement – Vitamin D & K Complex

Zhou Vitamin K2 (MK7) with D3 Supplement - Vitamin D & K Complex

What is Vitamin D?

Function of

  • Vitamin D Vitamin D includes vitamin D2 contained in vegetable foods and vitamin D3 contained in animal foods. Vitamin D3 is also a metabolite of cholesterol. The two vitamin Ds have the same role.
  • It regulates the calcium concentration in the blood by synthesizing the proteins necessary for the body to absorb calcium. Also, it helps calcium in the blood to settle in bones and teeth, and also supports strong bones and teeth.

Vitamin D is compatible with calcium

  • Vitamin D is deeply involved in the absorption of calcium, which is important for bone formation and growth. Therefore, the compatibility between the two is outstanding. By continuing to take calcium and vitamin D supplements together, you can expect strong bone building.

Vitamin D is synthesized in the body by sunlight

  • Vitamin D is a nutrient that can be synthesized in the body in the sunlight. Sunbathing for 10 to 20 minutes a day will produce enough vitamin D.

Supplements are recommended for those who are worried about shortages

  • Vitamin D can be taken from many foods such as dried fish, dried shiitake mushrooms, dried shiitake mushrooms, and wood ear mushrooms. Insufficient vitamin D makes it difficult for ingested calcium to connect to bones and affects lifestyle habits.
  • Therefore, it is ideal to eat regularly with a well-balanced diet, but some people may tend to be malnourished in their busy days. For such people, we recommend supplements that are packed with the necessary ingredients.

What foods contain vitamin D?

There are not many foods that contain vitamin D. However, you can find vitamin D in:

  • Cow’s milk
  • Fortified soy and rice drinks
  • Fortified orange juice
  • Oily fish like salmon and sardines
  • Margarine
  • The egg yolk
  • Fortified yogurts (read the label)

Do I need a vitamin D supplement?

  • Children and adults who do not get enough vitamin D from food or who have low blood vitamin D levels may need a supplement. Adults who have osteopenia or osteoporosis may also need a vitamin D supplement. Talk to your doctor to find out your vitamin D level. A registered dietitian or your doctor can help you decide whether and how much to take a supplement.
  • Vitamin D supplements are sold freely as pills, chewable tablets, or drops.

What if I am a vegetarian?

  • A well-planned vegan or vegetarian diet can give you all the vitamin D you need. However, children and adults who are vegans or vegetarians who do not get enough vitamin D from their food or who have low blood levels of vitamin D may need a vitamin D supplement. Consult your doctor, health care provider. health care provider or your registered dietitian about your vitamin D needs.

Can I get vitamin D from the sun?

  • Yes. In the spring and summer, your body makes vitamin D when your skin is exposed to the sun without sunscreen. The amount of vitamin D your body can make from sunlight also depends on your age, where you live, and your skin tone. In Ontario, it is difficult to get enough vitamin D in the fall and winter. Don’t just rely on the sun to meet your vitamin D needs.

What if I don’t get enough vitamin D?

  • People who do not get enough vitamin D from food, have limited sun exposure, or have their kidneys unable to convert vitamin D to its active form may be deficient in vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency in childhood causes “rickets” in which bones soften and deform. Rickets is a rare disease that still occurs and is common in African-American infants and children. Vitamin D deficiency in adulthood leads to osteomalacia, which causes bone pain and muscle weakness.

Summary

  • Vitamin D is an important nutrient for the body in many other ways. For example, to move muscles, nerves transmit messages between the brain and every part of the body, which is essential for the immune system to fight off bacteria and viruses that invade the body. Vitamin D, along with calcium, also protects the elderly from osteoporosis. Vitamin D is present in cells throughout the body.
  • Vitamin D is important for strong bones and may help reduce the risk of some cancers.
    The Food Guide recommends that everyone over the age of two drink 500 mL (2 cups) of milk or fortified soy beverage each day to get enough vitamin D.
    Consult your healthcare practitioner if you do not drink milk or fortified soy beverage to see if you need a vitamin D supplement.
  • If you are a man or woman over 50, it is recommended that you take a vitamin D supplement of 400 IU daily in addition to eating foods that contain vitamin D.