The body makes most of its vitamin D itself when sunlight falls on the skin.
At our latitudes, the sun is hardly strong enough for this from October to March. Food provides only small amounts; oily fish such as herring or salmon and eggs contain the most.
As a food supplement, vitamin D usually comes as vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), in drops or capsules, often together with vitamin K2.
- Recommended per day: 20 µg (800 IU) if the body cannot make its own vitamin D (D-A-CH)
- Main source: sunlight on the skin
- From food: oily fish, eggs, small amounts in mushrooms
- Forms: drops, capsules, with or without K2
What vitamin D is needed for
The EU has authorised several health claims for vitamin D. Here is a selection in their exact wording:
Good to know when taking it
Frequently asked questions
More vitamins such as vitamin C, B12 and K can be found under Vitamins, all nutrient groups under Nutrients.