Health Secretary Hancock orders review into Vitamin D

The most recent research released from the government shows a worrying deficiency in key vitamins and minerals amongst the UK public, which may make the public more suspectable to illnesses this winter. According to the latest findings between January and March 19% of children aged 4 to 10 years, 37% of children aged 11 to 18 years and 29% of adults have vitamin D deficiencies. The findings also revealed that blood folate and vitamin A has seen a significant decrease amongst almost all age and sex groups.

Worryingly the research showed that Brits are not eating enough fruit or vegetable, hinting at the possibility for low nutrient diets. A separate statement from the British Nutrition Foundation also shows that iron deficiency is highly common amongst the British public, in addition to potassium, magnesium and selenium.

Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can have an adverse effect on the immune system. The influence of Vitamin D3 metabolises the immune system and Vitamin A can affect aspects of an adaptive immune response, deficient individuals’ immune systems will be more at risk of viruses. As cold and flu seasons approaches, those with deficiencies are more likely to be afflicted by a virus when exposed to it. With the added threat of COVID-19, it is evident that more needs to be done to ensure the public are getting enough vitamin and minerals to aid in the protection of their immune systems.

Aston spoke to nutrition expert Ross Harrington to discuss the research in further detail and offer advice on how to support your immune system during the winter months.