Vitamin D is a nutrient that is talked about a lot, especially now that autumn is in full swing. Vitamin D is naturally present in sunlight, and with it showing up less and less, a deficiency is on the horizon. Using a vitamin D supplement, such as vitamin D drops, can then help. In this blog, we discuss the importance of vitamin D, the symptoms of a deficiency and vitamin D in food. We also discuss why vitamin D drops are a convenient solution to ensure you get enough of this vitamin.

What is vitamin D?

Vitamin D, also called the "sunshine vitamin," is produced when our skin is exposed to sunlight. This vitamin is essential for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus in our bodies, which is needed for strong bones and teeth.

In addition, vitamin D plays a role in supporting the immune system, promoting muscle function and contributing to the process of cell renewal.

A vitamin D deficiency

Recent research from the Food Consumption Survey showed that as many as 92% of all Dutch people do not get enough vitamin D*. One of the reasons is a lack of sunlight exposure - sunlight is the main source of vitamin D. Especially in the autumn and winter months, the sun strength in the Netherlands is not strong enough, which means that the skin cannot produce enough vitamin D from sunlight.

Even if you have a dark complexion, or if you protect yourself from the sun through sunscreen, a hat or covered clothing, your skin cannot produce enough vitamin D from sunlight.

Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency

• Trembling muscles or muscle cramps

• Weaker bones

• Decreased immune system

• Osteoporosis

• Weaker teeth

• Painful joints

Nutrition or a vitamin D supplement?

Fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin D (as well as vitamins A, E and K) can be stored in your body's tissues. This allows you to build up an internal reserve supply when taken sufficiently and regularly.

Therefore, a vitamin D deficiency will not happen overnight. It only happens if you get too little from sunlight or food over a long period of time.

Vitamin D from food

Although vitamin D is primarily produced by exposure to sunlight, you can also find it in certain foods. Oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and tuna are excellent natural sources of vitamin D. Eggs, mushrooms and fortified dairy products also contain vitamin D.

Vitamin D supplement

If you live in an area where sunlight is scarce or find yourself in the fall or winter season and struggle to get enough vitamin D from food, vitamin D drops or capsules are a convenient way to ensure that you can still build up a sufficient supply of this important nutrient! 

* https://www.gezondheidsraad.nl/documenten/adviezen/2012/09/26/evaluatie-van-de- nutrition-standards-for-vitamin-d