Immune support

“Ensuring your vitamin D status is optimised will help keep you well, support your immune health and prevent deficiency symptoms which include fatigue and low mood,” says nutritionist Kim Pearson.

Bone health

Dr Gall adds: “The main benefit of having sufficient levels of vitamin D is for bone health. Vitamin D helps to regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in our bodies to promote strong, healthy bones and teeth. Other benefits include supporting the immune system, regulating insulin levels (which helps with managing diabetes) and preventing diseases such as cardiovascular disease and rheumatoid arthritis.”

Brain function

There are also psychological benefits of vitamin D, too. “This vitamin is a great mood booster, as it’s important for brain function and has been known to reduce symptoms of depression and improve mood,” says Dr Gall.

October is the time our vitamin D levels naturally start to drop – here's how to get more of the sunshine vitamin