THE FIT FACTOR

AS WE approach the UK summer holiday season, many of you will be looking forward to jetting off abroad or enjoying sunnier days closer to home.

- David Fairlamb

Alongside the beaches, barbecues and longer evenings, summer presents a key opportunity to support our health, especially when it comes to vitamin D.

Often referred to as the sunshine vitamin, vitamin D plays a vital role in our overall wellbeing. But how can we make the most of summer to top up our levels? Can we store it for winter? And are the common myths, like whether sunscreen blocks vitamin D, actually true?

What is Vitamin D and why is it important?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps regulate calcium and phosphate levels in the body essential for healthy bones, teeth and muscles. It's also increasingly recognised for its role in supporting the immune system, mood regulation, and even reducing the risk of certain chronic illnesses.