What are the Benefits of Vitamin D Supplements?

Between office jobs, winter months, and sunscreen (which we should definitely wear), many of us just don't get enough sun exposure to maintain optimal Vitamin D levels. That's where supplements come into play. So what exactly are the benefits of Vitamin D supplements, and should you be taking them? WUKA experts discuss.

In this article, we’ll be looking at:

The benefits of Vitamin D supplements

Why we need Vitamin D

Signs and symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency

The Many Benefits of Vitamin D Supplements

If you have low Vitamin D levels, your doctor may prescribe high strength Vitamin D supplements to take for a short period of time, or you may be advised to take over the counter supplements. It’s important to follow medical advice, and always read the patient instructions on how to take supplements. 

So, what are the benefits of taking Vitamin D supplements?

1. Stronger Bones and Teeth

Vitamin D works hand-in-hand with calcium to build and maintain strong bones. Without it, calcium can't do its job properly, so supplementing with Vitamin D can help prevent conditions like osteoporosis and reduce fracture risk, especially in older adults.

2. Immune System Support

It's no secret we’re more susceptible to coughs and colds during the winter months, and research suggests this could be down to the crucial role that Vitamin D plays immune function. This study also found that Vitamin D can play a role in autoimmune disease too. 

3. Mood Regulation

There's a reason Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) hits during dark winter months. Vitamin D appears to influence serotonin, the "feel-good" neurotransmitter. Some studies show that supplementing with Vitamin D can help alleviate symptoms of depression, particularly in people with diagnosed deficiency.

4. Heart Health

Research indicates that Vitamin D may help regulate blood pressure and prevent arterial damage. Some studies also suggest that maintaining adequate Vitamin D levels could reduce cardiovascular disease risk, though more research is needed to fully understand this connection.

The Essential Role of Vitamin D in Your Body

Vitamin D is a real powerhouse, influencing nearly every cell in your body. It helps your body absorb calcium properly, making it critical for bone health. But it also plays a huge role in immune function, muscle strength and even your mood too. 

Safe to say, Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health and wellbeing. And being deficient in this essential vitamin can lead to a variety of symptoms too.

Signs You Might Need More Vitamin D

Feeling tired all the time? Catching every cold going around the office? These could be signs you're running low on Vitamin D. Other clues include:

• Bone pain or muscle weakness

• Mood changes or feelings of depression (especially in winter)

• Hair loss

• Slow wound healing

The thing is though, symptoms can be subtle or even attributed to other causes. That's why so many people who are deficient in Vitamin D don't even know it until a blood test reveals the truth.

Who's Most at Risk for Deficiency?

Vitamin D deficiency is more common that you might think. And some groups of people are at  higher risk of developing low Vitamin D levels:

• People with darker skin: melanin reduces the skin's ability to produce Vitamin D

• Older adults: skin becomes less efficient at making Vitamin D as we age

• Those who live in northern latitudes with less sunlight

• People who stay indoors most of the time

• Those with certain digestive conditions that affect nutrient absorption

• People following strict vegan diets - read about vegetarian foods rich in Vitamin D here. 

If any of the above applies to you and you’re concerned about Vitamin D, speak to your GP for advice. Your doctor may recommend Vitamin D supplements to help you restore your levels back to a healthy balance. 

Types of Vitamin D Supplements: Finding What Works for You

Not all Vitamin D supplements are created equal. There are two main forms:

Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) - Typically derived from plant sources, making it suitable for vegans.

Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) - Usually derived from animal sources (often lanolin from sheep's wool) and considered more effective at raising blood levels of Vitamin D.

For most adults, D3 is the preferred form since it's identical to what your skin produces in response to sunlight. However, if you follow a vegan lifestyle, plant-based D2 or vegan D3 (derived from lichen) are excellent alternatives.

Finding the Right Vitamin D Supplement for Your Needs

Whether you prefer traditional capsules or gummies, there are several factors to consider:

Vitamin D3 with K2: A Powerful Combination

These two vitamins are a powerful combination, working in harmony with your body to ensure maximum calcium absorption: Vitamin D3 helps your body absorb calcium, while K2 helps to transport it to bones and teeth.

The best vitamin D3 and K2 supplements UK customers prefer typically contain D3 derived from high-quality sources along with the MK-7 form of K2, which stays active in the body longer.

Natural and Vegan Options

If you follow a plant-based diet, look for natural vitamin D vegan formulations. These are typically derived from lichen, one of the few plant sources that produces D3 rather than D2. These supplements allow vegans to get the more effective form of Vitamin D without compromising their dietary principles.

Vitamin D Gummies

Let's be honest - taking supplements can sometimes feel like a chore. That's where vitamin D gummies come in. They've revolutionised the supplement world by turning what used to be a daily task into something you might actually look forward to.

Why Vitamin D Gummies Are Gaining Popularity Among Adults

Vitamin D gummies for adults have seen explosive growth in recent years, and for good reason. First, they solve the common problem of pill fatigue. Many people struggle with swallowing tablets or simply forget to take them. Gummies, with their pleasant taste and candy-like appearance, are much easier to incorporate into your routine.

They're also ideal for those who experience digestive discomfort with traditional pills. The chewable format can be gentler on sensitive stomachs while still delivering the Vitamin D your body needs.

Many manufacturers have perfected the art of creating vitamin D in gummies that taste great without packing in excessive sugar or artificial ingredients. New WUKA Cycle Care Vitamin D gummies have a delicious natural citrus flavour, are vegan friendly and kind on the tummy too. 

What to Look for in Vitamin D Gummies

Vitamin D gummies are a great way to supplement, especially if you struggle to swallow tablets. Here’s what to look for when choosing the right gummies for you:

• Dosage - Most gummies contain between 1,000-5,000 IU of Vitamin D per serving. Check with your doctor or pharmacist about the right amount for your specific needs. WUKA Cycle Care Vitamin D gummies contain 2000IU (adults) and 1000IU (teenagers), making them ideal for most.

• Additional nutrients - Some gummies combine vitamin D3 with K2, which helps direct calcium to your bones rather than your arteries.

• Sugar content - Look for options with minimal added sugar or those sweetened with alternatives like stevia.

• Natural ingredients - The best products use natural colours and flavours rather than artificial ones.

• Vegan friendly - look for gummies that are plant based.

The Bottom Line: Is Supplementation Right for You?

Modern lifestyles and the challenges of getting adequate Vitamin D from sunlight alone, means that supplements make sense for many people. However, they're not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle.

The best approach combines responsible sun exposure (about 10-30 minutes several times a week, depending on your skin tone and location), a nutrient-rich diet including natural food sources of Vitamin D, and appropriate supplementation based on your individual needs.

Remember, what works for someone else might not be right for you. Listen to your body, consult your doctor, and make informed choices that support your overall wellbeing. After all, the goal isn't just avoiding deficiency – it's optimising your health for a vibrant, energetic life.