Pharmacist gives Vitamin D warning over disease worries

A pharmacist has issued a warning that many people in the UK may be wasting money on vitamin D supplements—or risking their health—if they take them incorrectly or at excessive doses. The NHS advises considering 10 micrograms (400 IU) daily during autumn and winter, when sunlight exposure drops from October to March. Vitamin D supports bone health, immune function, muscle performance, mental wellbeing, inflammation control and cardiovascular health, but toxicity can occur with prolonged high intake. The Cleveland Clinic says vitamin D toxicity is rare and can lead to hypercalcemia, with symptoms that may include kidney failure, abnormal heart rhythm, ataxia and confusion. The pharmacist stresses that vitamin D is fat-soluble and should be taken with food containing healthy fats.