Autoimmune and Vitamin D
Why is Vitamin D So Important?
When did you last have your Vitamin D levels measured?
Mine are checked at least annually now, yet I went years without even considering Vitamin D. It only became a priority when I began investigating my own autoimmune issues—and realising just how deeply this single nutrient affects our immune system.
Why does Vitamin D matter so much?
Unlike most vitamins, Vitamin D actually behaves like a hormone in the body. Almost all of our immune cells carry specific Vitamin D receptors, which use Vitamin D to help regulate immune activity, calm excessive inflammation, and keep our "Security Team" balanced rather than overreactive.
Because of this immunomodulatory role, clear connections have been found between low Vitamin D levels and autoimmune conditions—including multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and type 1 diabetes. Large clinical trials have even shown that maintaining healthy Vitamin D status helps reduce the risk of developing autoimmune disease.
Where do we get Vitamin D?
You can find small amounts of Vitamin D in a few key foods, including:
Wild-caught oily fish (such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, and tuna)
Egg yolks
UV-exposed or sunlight-grown mushrooms
Fortified foods (such as fortified cereals and plant milks)
However, food alone rarely provides enough. Our most abundant natural source of Vitamin D is direct sunlight on the skin. Yet between balancing sensible sun protection in summer and living in northern climates—where UK sunlight between October and March lacks the UVB rays needed to make Vitamin D at all—deficiency is remarkably common.
Because Vitamin D plays such a vital role in keeping immune function steady, it is essential if you are living with or managing an autoimmune condition.
A quick next step: If you have never had your Vitamin D levels checked, ask your GP for a simple blood test. While the NHS recommends a basic daily maintenance dose of 10 micrograms (400 IU) through autumn and winter, getting your exact baseline measured ensures you and your doctor can choose the right, safe dose for your individual needs.
I hope you have enjoyed this information. Until next time!
Emma Alexander-Cook.
Facebook Support Group
A Facebook group set up to support those living with Autoimmune Diseases or are living gluten-free, dairy-free life.
