04 Apr 2022 --- The UK Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) is launching an inquiry into the potential of vitamin D supplements and fortified F&B to impact the health of UK residents. The review aims to raise awareness on vitamin D while compiling views from citizens, civil groups, health experts and F&B industry to improve intake across demographics. “We want to improve the dietary health of the population and this includes supporting everyone to maintain sufficient vitamin D levels to support strong and healthy bones and muscles,” says Dr. Tazeem Bhattia, interim chief nutritionist at OHID.Commenting on the move, Dr. Colin Smith, professor at the University of Surrey department of nutritional sciences tells NutritionInsight: “Too many people in the UK are vitamin D deficient, mistakenly thinking they get enough from the sun or their diet.”“This problem has been further exacerbated by lockdown over the last two years and people with pigmented skin, such as Black and South Asian ethnic groups, are generally seriously and chronically vitamin D deficient.” The OHID’s six week inquiry anticipates the Health Disparities White Paper setting out plans to reduce demographic and regional health inequality, due to be published later this year. Vitamin D deficiencies can lead to bone pain, rickets, and the development of health conditions including osteoporosis.
