THE infamous British weather may be putting people at risk of a vital vitamin deficiency, recent data has revealed.

Independent advisory body the Scientific Advisory Commission on Nutrition (SACN) is warning that the lack of sunny spells in the UK may stop people receiving vitamin D which is essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth.

They said people should take supplements after finding links between the deficiency and major illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, multiple sclerosis and type-1 diabetes.

The organisation warns that people in the UK aged between 11 and 64 need up to 10 micrograms of vitamin D every day, but due to the bleak British weather people are unable to absorb the vitamin directly from sunlight.

Helen Auburn, a nutritional therapist based in Old Town, said people need to be vigilant in ensuring they are getting enough of the vital vitamin.

“I see a lot of people with a severe vitamin D deficiency and it puts your health in danger if you are not aware of the risk. It can prevent many illnesses,” she said.

“Sitting in the sunshine is still the best way to receive vitamin D.

Vitamin D contributes to healthy bones, teeth and in weather like this we are missing out on this vital source of goodness. Failing that a simple blood test will be able to tell you if you are deficient in vitamin D and can help with suitable supplements.”

According to a recent report published by Public Health England, one in five people have low levels of vitamin D.

It can be found in small quantities in oily fish, eggs and dairy products but it is most effective when absorbed through sunlight or in supplement form.

Fiona Dickens, public health manager and dietitian at Swindon Borough Council, recommends utilising short periods of sunshine to get the daily dosage of the vitamin.

“We encourage people to continue following the current advice which only advises groups at greater risk, including pregnant women, children up to the age of five, adults over 65, and people with darker skin as well as those who do not expose their skin to sunlight, to take vitamin D supplements.

“Short daily periods of sun exposure without sunscreen during the warmer months of April to October are enough for most people to make enough vitamin D.

“Whilst the sun plays a vital role in the production of vitamin D, it also presents many dangers if precautions aren’t taken and this is illustrated by the rising incidence of skin cancer in the UK.

For tips about staying safe in the sun, visit www.nhs.uk/sun.