Why Vitamin D Matters: More Than Just “Bone Health”
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Vitamin D often gets pigeonholed as “the bone vitamin,” and yes, that is a crucial function, but it does far more than that:
Calcium absorption & bone strength: Without enough vitamin D, your body can’t absorb calcium effectively, which can weaken bones and raise the risk of fractures.
Muscle health & function: It supports muscle strength and coordination.
Immune regulation: Vitamin D modulates both the innate and adaptive immune systems. Low levels are linked with greater susceptibility to infection.
Mood, fatigue & general wellbeing: Deficiency often shows up as tiredness, low mood, or a feeling of “just not quite right” — especially during darker, colder months.
So if you’ve been asking “Why do I feel tired?” — it could be tied to low vitamin D (among many possible causes).
Why Supplement in the UK (Especially in Winter)
1. Sunlight is Limited October to March
In the UK, UVB rays strong enough to trigger vitamin D production in the skin are only present from late March / early April to the end of September. Outside of those months, you can’t reliably make enough vitamin D via sunlight.
During autumn and winter, Public Health England and other UK health bodies recommend that adults take a supplement of 10 micrograms (400 IU) of vitamin D daily to support general health, bones and muscles.
2. Diet Alone Isn’t Enough
Few foods naturally contain vitamin D — oily fish, egg yolks, fortified spreads or cereals are among the limited sources. Even with a good diet, it’s very difficult to meet the recommended amounts purely from food.
3. Illness & Immune Support
Winter is when colds, flu, and respiratory infections surge. Because vitamin D plays a role in immune defence (modulating responses, stimulating antimicrobial peptides, reducing excessive inflammation), maintaining adequate levels may help reduce the incidence or severity of infections, particularly in those who are deficient.
A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials found that vitamin D supplementation significantly reduced the risk of acute respiratory infections — especially in people with low baseline levels. That said, results are mixed — some large trials with very high doses haven’t shown consistent benefit in all populations.
So when someone asks:
“What supplements do I need in winter?” — vitamin D is one of the most commonly recommended ones in the UK.
“How can I get less ill in winter?” — keeping vitamin D levels in a healthy range is one modifiable factor (on top of good sleep, hand hygiene, diet, stress management).
“Why am I getting ill in winter?” — low vitamin D may weaken immune defences, especially when combined with other stressors (lack of sleep, indoor crowding, etc.).
How Much Vitamin D Do I Need?
For most adults in the UK, the standard is 10 micrograms (400 IU) per day.
Some local NHS guidelines allow higher maintenance doses (e.g. 800 IU) or prescription strength in specific cases like deficiency, bone disease, or after a loading regimen.
Routine testing is not generally recommended unless there are specific reasons (symptoms, bone disease, suspected deficiency)
It’s safest to stay within recommended limits, as extremely high doses of vitamin D over long periods can cause adverse effects (e.g. high calcium).
How Vigor Makes It Easy — Vitamin D in Vigor Essential
You don’t need multiple bottles for every different function. In Vigor Essential, we include a high-absorption vitamin D (in the form of D3, which is better absorbed than D2 in many cases).
One capsule per day — simple, no fuss, part of your daily ritual
No need to remember separate vitamin D pills (especially in winter)
Formulated to support women’s health, hormone balance, bone maintenance, and immune strength
We believe in simplicity + consistency, so that you don’t have to think too hard — just take your single daily capsule and know you’re covering your bases.
Tips to Maximise Vitamin D & Health During Winter
Take your capsule with food containing healthy fat (because vitamin D is fat-soluble)
If sunlight allows (on brighter winter days), spend a little time outdoors midday
Include vitamin D–rich foods (oily fish, egg yolks, fortified spread/cereals)
Make sure you’re also supporting general immune health: sleep well, manage stress, maintain diet & movement
If you suspect chronic fatigue or low vitamin D beyond what supplementation offers, ask your GP about testing
FAQs
Why do I feel tired?
Low vitamin D can contribute to fatigue, reduced muscle strength, low mood — especially in darker months when sunlight is limited.
Why am I getting ill in winter?
Your immune system is under more strain, and low vitamin D can weaken your first line of defence. Pairing supplementation with good sleep, nutrition, and hygiene can help.
What supplements do I need in winter?
Vitamin D is often the front-runner. Depending on your diet, lifestyle, and needs, others like vitamin C, zinc, or multivitamins may also help — but vitamin D is one of the most evidence-backed for the UK winter context.
Take Action
Don’t let the grey skies and short days sabotage your health. With Vigor Essential, you’re getting a thoughtfully designed multivitamin that already includes vitamin D — no extra pills, no guesswork.
👉 Ready to keep your vitamin D levels strong this winter (and beyond)? Visit our website to learn more and start your daily routine with confidence www.vigorvitamins.co.uk