Most of us are aware that we produce Vitamin D through exposure to sunlight. Location, sun exposure, age, and skin color influence the amount your skin produces.  

If you work indoors it's important to be mindful of your body’s needs. Check out - Vitamin D – are you getting enough of the sunshine vitamin?

What is Vitamin D and Vitamin D3?

Vitamin D is technically not a vitamin, but a prohormone made by the skin when exposed to sunlight. The body then converts it into hormones that have various actions around the body. Vitamin D3 is the active form often found in supplements because the body can easily absorb it. 

Why choose D with K? 

In supplements you’ll often find Vitamin D combined with Vitamin K. Both are important for strong bones and help the body use Calcium, a key mineral for bones. They work synergistically so it makes sense to take them in tandem.

What is vitamin D good for? 

This fat soluble nutrient supports: 

• Bone health and calcium absorption
• Healthy aging
• Healthy blood sugar levels
• Mood and emotional health
• Healthy immune function - for all round immune support, add in some Vitamin A and Vitamin C
• Healthy fertility in both males and females
• Healthy pregnancy to support the growing baby 

How to take Vitamin D?

• You can take a supplement at any time of day - taking it with a meal enhances absorption
• The best way to ensure you're getting enough is through sun exposure. Try and get outside in the sun during low UV times of the day
• Foods such as eggs and oily fish contain very small amounts
• Research shows that around 30% of New Zealanders have sub-optimal levels. Likely due to our distance from the equator
• Other factors that increase you needs, are high levels of melanin, you're over 50 or spend a lot of time indoors
• In the winter months, you can take a supplement to make up for lack of sunlight. It's important to consider your own needs based on where you live and your skin pigmentation

What is the best vitamin D supplement?

Vitamin D3 is the most bioavailable form. If you are unsure about your levels, you can always speak to your trusted healthcare professional. 

If taste is important for you, you may be interested in vitamin D gummies for adults and kids. A spray can be useful as a vitamin D product the whole family can take. You can find vegan vitamin D extracted from natural lichen.

Learn more about each type of vitamin D and naturopath top picks