Do we need vitamin D even in the summer?

Do you think wine protects you from vitamin D deficiency?

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for the body, helping to maintain bone health, supporting immune system function, and supporting proper muscle function.

Our bodies can synthesize this vitamin on their own when our skin is exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D is also obtained through food, especially from fatty fish such as salmon, egg yolks, and fortified products such as milk and cereals.

Who is most at risk from shortages?

Certain groups are more at risk for vitamin D deficiency, including:

• The elderly

• People with darker skin (because melanin inhibits vitamin D synthesis)

• Those who spend little time outdoors or live in places with little sun

When are supplements useful?

Experts agree that supplements are most necessary for people with confirmed vitamin D deficiency. In these cases, taking extra vitamin D helps strengthen bones, reduce the risk of fractures, and improve immune response.

Vitamin D was once thought to prevent diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. However, large clinical trials, such as the one known as Vital, with over 25,000 participants, have not shown clear benefits in this regard for otherwise healthy people, writes Time, according to Telegraph.

Exceptions worth mentioning

Some new research suggests that vitamin D may help prevent autoimmune diseases and reduce the risk of developing advanced forms of cancer, but these effects have only been observed in certain populations and in combination with other factors.

How much vitamin D is enough?

The recommended daily doses are:

• 600–800 IU (international units) for adults under 65 years of age

• 800–1,000 IU for people over 65 years old

But be careful: excessive intake (over 4,000 IU per day) can cause hypercalcemia, nausea, weakness, and even kidney damage.

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For most people, vitamin D can be obtained through a balanced diet and moderate sun exposure, even during the summer. Supplements are only necessary in cases where a deficiency is confirmed through tests and in consultation with a doctor.

If you suspect you may have a vitamin D deficiency, it is important to consult your doctor for testing and personalized guidance.