Many people turn to vitamin D supplements to compensate for a deficiency of this important vitamin for bone, teeth, and muscle health. Vitamin D is essential for regulating the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body, helping to prevent bone deformities. During certain times of the year, it is necessary to take vitamin D supplements to ensure the body gets enough of this vitamin.
When the skin is exposed to sunlight, a series of reactions begin, allowing the body to produce vitamin D. However, during the winter months, the skin does not receive enough sunlight to generate adequate amounts of vitamin D. Generally, you can get all the vitamins and minerals you need from a healthy, balanced diet. Nevertheless, sometimes you may need to take additional supplements if you have a specific condition or struggle to obtain enough of a particular vitamin.
Vitamin D is found in a limited number of foods, including oily fish, red meat, egg yolks, and fortified foods. However, the best way to obtain vitamin D is to spend time in the sunlight or to take dietary supplements.
When should you stop taking vitamin D supplements? From late March to the end of September, you will not need to take vitamin D supplements. When October arrives, you will need to take a vitamin D supplement daily until the end of March. Most people should take a 10-microgram tablet per day, but it is advisable to consult your doctor to determine the specific amount you need. Adults should not take more than 100 micrograms of vitamin D per day, children aged 1 to 10 years should not exceed 50 micrograms, and infants under 12 months should not take more than 25 micrograms per day.
