Vitamin D

What it is

Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin found in foods. Your skin can make it when sunlight reaches it. It is found in oily fish, egg yolks and liver. Some foods have extra vitamin D added to them.

What it does

It helps your body absorb calcium from food. It helps your body absorb phosphorus from food. It helps keep your bones and teeth strong. It helps your muscles work well each day.

How much people need

• FDA Daily Value for Vitamin D: 20 mcg. It is a reference amount used on Nutrition Facts labels, not a personal target. Source: US FDA.

Common myths

• Myth: You can get all your vitamin D from food. Truth: Few foods are naturally rich in vitamin D. Fortified foods and sunlight on the skin also add to it. Avoid sunburn.
• Myth: Vitamin D only helps your bones stay strong. Truth: It also helps your muscles work well.

Sources and background

The sections on what it is, what it does and the myths are general background from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin D fact sheet, checked on 29 October 2026. The intake figures above carry their own sources.