GP urges Britons to start vitamin D supplements from October to fight off winter bugs and fatigue
An NHS doctor has issued a stark warning to Britons: start taking vitamin D from October — or risk being struck down by illness this winter.
Dr Shireen, a GP who regularly shares health advice online, said everyone in the UK should be taking the supplement from October through March, as sunlight levels drop too low for the body to produce enough naturally.
“There is one supplement that everybody without question needs to be taking,” she told her followers. “From October to March, NHS guidelines say everyone should take vitamin D.”
The advice follows official NHS recommendations, which state that people living in the UK simply cannot absorb enough vitamin D from sunlight during the darker months. The doctor warned that a lack of this vital nutrient can weaken the immune system, leaving people more vulnerable to colds, flu, and viral infections.
“We get most of our vitamin D from the sun,” Dr Shireen explained. “During winter, daylight hours are too short — even if you’re outdoors all day, you won’t get enough exposure to make the vitamin you need.”
The warning comes as seasonal viruses begin to rise across the country, with GP surgeries already reporting higher cases of respiratory infections and flu-like illnesses.
Dr Shireen stressed that vitamin D deficiency doesn’t just increase infection risk — it can also cause fatigue, muscle aches, low mood, and bone pain. “It’s so prevalent in this country,” she said. “Many people just don’t realise they’re deficient.”
The NHS advises that everyone over the age of one should consider taking a 10-microgram supplement daily between October and March. Some people, including those who spend most of their time indoors, wear clothing that covers most of their skin, or have darker skin tones, may need to take it all year round.
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Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for healthy bones, teeth, and muscles. It’s found naturally in oily fish, red meat, and fortified foods, but it’s difficult to get enough from diet alone — particularly during the winter months.
According to the NHS, a deficiency can lead to rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults, conditions that cause soft or brittle bones. In severe cases, low vitamin D levels have also been linked to depression and a weakened immune response.
Dr Shireen’s advice sparked widespread discussion online, with many viewers thanking her for raising awareness. “I never realised it was this important,” one follower commented. “I’m going to start taking it today.”
Others shared that they had noticed a huge difference in their energy and immunity after supplementing regularly.
Although there have been claims that vitamin D might help prevent or treat COVID-19, the NHS says there is not yet enough evidence to recommend it specifically for that purpose. However, maintaining good vitamin D levels remains a crucial step in protecting overall health during the colder months.
For those uncertain about dosage, the NHS recommends a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms (400 IU) of vitamin D for most adults and children aged over one year. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also advised to take it daily.
Dr Shireen summed up her advice simply:
“You have to just take it. That’s everybody. A lack of vitamin D reduces your immunity — and right now, with all these winter bugs going around, you’re going to be much more likely to get sick without it.”