New light shed on vitamin D

Almost a fifth of UK adults have low vitamin D levels – less than 25 nmol/litre of 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D), the main circulating form – NICE has reported. Severe vitamin D deficiency can cause rickets, osteomalacia (soft bones) and hypocalcaemia (low blood calcium levels). Low vitamin D levels may also predispose patients to other conditions, including osteoporosis, diabetes and some cancers, although NICE says the evidence supporting these links is 'inconclusive'.¹ Now recent studies have thrown new light on the safety and efficacy of vitamin D supplements, suggesting, for instance, that the vitamin may aid weight loss.