Vitamin D: a simple buying guide

Vitamin D supplements in softgels, capsules, tablets, oral sprays, drops and gummies, including vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), D3 with K2 combinations and vegan D3. Brands include NOW Foods, OstroVit, Osavi, Nordic Naturals, Life Extension, BetterYou, Applied Nutrition, Doctor's Best, Jarrow Formulas and Cytoplan.

Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system, to the maintenance of normal bones and to normal muscle function. In the UK, government advice is that everyone should consider a daily vitamin D supplement during autumn and winter, when sunlight is too weak for the skin to make enough. Strengths range from everyday doses to high-strength products, shown in micrograms (mcg) or international units (IU), where 10 mcg equals 400 IU. D3 and K2 products add vitamin K2, usually as MK-7. Most vitamin D3 is made from lanolin, so vegans should look for lichen-sourced D3 labelled as vegan. Sprays and drops suit people who dislike swallowing capsules. Follow the label directions and do not exceed the stated daily serving. See our vitamin D guide and our guide to vitamin K2.

Shop the range: Vitamin D at NE Commerce

How to choose vitamin D

  • Strength: compare mcg or IU per serving (10 mcg = 400 IU).
  • With or without K2: D3 and K2 combinations add vitamin K2.
  • Vegan: look for lichen-sourced D3.
  • Format: softgels, tablets, sprays, drops or gummies.

Related ranges and guides

Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

FAQs

Should I take vitamin D in the UK?

Government advice is that everyone should consider a daily vitamin D supplement during autumn and winter. Some groups are advised to take one all year; a healthcare professional can advise you.

What is the difference between IU and mcg?

They are two ways of measuring vitamin D. 10 mcg equals 400 IU, so 25 mcg equals 1,000 IU.

Why take vitamin D3 with K2?

Some people prefer a combined product. Vitamin K contributes to the maintenance of normal bones, as does vitamin D.

Is vitamin D3 vegan?

Most D3 is made from lanolin, which is not vegan. Vegan D3 is usually made from lichen and labelled as vegan.

Ready to compare? Browse our full Vitamin D range.

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