Vitamin D Announcement Welcomed by UK's Leading Nutrition Organisation
The British Dietetic Association (BDA) today welcomed an announcement by the Government Chief Medical Officer, Sally Davies, regarding Vitamin D.
Following reports of Vitamin D deficiencies occurring within high risk groups, she said that the Government would review the issue of Vitamin D advice and they would "be contacting health professionals on the need to prescribe and recommend Vitamin D supplements to at-risk groups."
She also added: "The Department of Health has also asked the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition to review the important issue of current dietary recommendations on Vitamin D."
Currently, the Department of Health advises Vitamin D supplements for all pregnant women and children under the age of 5.
Other at-risks group include:
- Women who breastfeed
- People who are not exposed to much sun, e.g. those confined indoors for long periods, and those who cover their skin for cultural reasons
- People aged 65+
The British Dietetic Association welcomes the announcement by the Chief Medical Officer that all health professionals will now be pro-actively asked to prescribe Vitamin D supplements to all at-risk groups, a recommendation that dietitians have always supported.
This is an important public health message, strongly supported by the BDA, which has potential for significant health benefits.
Jacqui Lowdon, of the BDA Paediatric Group
The body makes Vitamin D under the skin when outside in direct daylight, which is the reason Vitamin D is sometimes called the sunshine vitamin. 
Vitamin D becomes more difficult to acquire from the sun during the winter months.
Vitamin D makes sure the body absorbs enough calcium in bones and teeth. Even if people have a calcium-rich diet, without enough Vitamin D calcium cannot be absorbed into the body.
For more information visit www.bda.uk.com