Introduction
Vitamin D is a vital nutrient that significantly contributes to our overall health. While it is commonly associated with the maintenance of strong bones and teeth through calcium absorption, its advantages are much wider, including a vital role in immune function and mental health support.
In the UK, natural sunlight is our primary source of vitamin D, as our skin synthesizes it in response to UV radiation. Nonetheless, the often gloomy weather and shorter daylight hours during autumn and winter make it challenging for many to get adequate vitamin D through sunlight exposure alone. For those who struggle to achieve necessary levels through natural means, dietary sources and supplements become vital.
Although some foods, like oily fish, egg yolks, and fortified products, provide modest amounts of vitamin D, many individuals find that they need supplements to maintain healthy levels throughout the year. To assist you in selecting the right vitamin D product, we have reviewed a diverse array of supplements available in the UK, covering various formats such as capsules, tablets, sprays, liquids, and gummies. We took into account vegetarian and vegan options alongside those designed for convenience and affordability.
This guide highlights high-quality, effective supplements designed to boost your vitamin D levels and advises on dosage, the best forms of vitamin D, and essential factors to consider when choosing a supplement. Let’s delve into the details.
Best vitamin D supplements at a glance
Best vitamin D capsules and tablets:
Best liquid vitamin D:
Best spray vitamin D:
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How we tested vitamin D supplements
All vitamin D supplements were evaluated simultaneously to ensure accurate comparisons. Each product was tested rigorously, with detailed observations made throughout the assessment period. Our selection included a wide range of brands and forms—tablets, capsules, gummies, sprays, and liquids—across various price points to suit all budgets.
We focused on the following criteria:
- Taste and flavour: For flavored or chewable products like gummies, liquids, or sprays, we assessed their palatability and any aftertaste.
- Nutrient profile: We examined the amount of vitamin D in each supplement, comparing it to the Nutrient Reference Value (NRV) and ensuring the dosages catered to both maintenance and higher support levels.
- Additives: Ingredient lists were scrutinized to determine the presence of preservatives, artificial sweeteners, or colorings, emphasizing those with simpler formulations.
- Dietary requirements: We evaluated products for their suitability across various diets, ensuring they met the needs of vegetarians, vegans, and those with common allergies.
- Value for money: We compared daily costs against quality, formulation, and usability, assessing the overall value of each supplement in relation to its counterparts.
Why you can trust Good Food reviews
Our reviews of vitamin D supplements blend expert advice with independent editorial oversight. Guided by our health editor and a qualified nutritionist, we ensured each product was assessed according to practical and scientific standards.
- Expert insight: Our nutritionist provided guidance on dosage, formulations, and safety, helping us identify the most effective options.
- Real-life focus: Our health editor evaluated how easy each supplement was to take, regardless of its form, and whether the pricing was reasonable.
- Independence: As always, findings were not disclosed to manufacturers or retailers prior to publication, and we do not accept payment for coverage.
This guide combines expert nutritional insights with user-friendly information, empowering you to confidently select the right vitamin D supplements for your needs.
Best vitamin D supplements to buy in 2026
Best vitamin D capsules and tablets
Dr Vegan Vitamin D3
Available from Dr Vegan (£8.99)
Price per day (recommended dose): 30p
Star rating: 5/5
Each flavorless capsule contains 63 micrograms (2,500 IU) of vegan vitamin D3, providing a robust yet safe daily dosage. They are simple to take with meals and come in environmentally-friendly, compostable packaging. With an allergen-free, additive-free formula, this product is validated by reputable industry organizations and is entirely plant-based, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a sustainable vitamin D3 supplement.
Available from:
ZipVit Vitamin D3 4000iu
Available from ZipVit (£8.49), Amazon (£7.22)
Price per day (recommended dose): 0.02p
Star rating: 5/5
This potent formula delivers a substantial 100mcg of vitamin D3, equating to 2000% of your recommended daily intake, all contained within a convenient single tablet. With 360 tablets in one package, this nearly year-long supply is suitable for vegetarians and has been praised for its ease of consumption, plus it contains no taste or odor.
Available from:
Vitabright Vitamin D3
Available from Amazon (£16.99), Vitabright (£19.99)
Price per day (recommended dose): 4.5p
Star rating: 4.5/5
Boasting a maximum dosage of 100mcg (2000% NRV) vitamin D3, this product includes sunflower oil for enhanced absorption, though it does not contain vitamin K. The gelatin capsule shell means these are not suitable for vegetarians, but they do not contain gluten or lactose. The impressive pack of 425 one-a-day softgels presents exceptional value and is ideal for those advised to supplement at higher doses after having their vitamin D levels checked.
Available from:
JS Health Vegan Vitamin D
Available from Amazon (£17.99), JS Health (£19.99)
Price per day (recommended dose): 33p
Star rating: 4/5
These small, smooth capsules offer the recommended daily dose of 25mcg (500% NRV) of vitamin D3, coupled with bran oil to enhance absorption, making them suitable for vegans.
Available from:
Zooki vitamin D3+K2
Available from Zooki(£24.99), Healf (£16.64)
Price per day (recommended dose): 83p
Star rating: 4/5
Marketed as using ‘liposomal technology’ to enhance absorption, these capsules contain a significant 75mcg (1500% NRV) of vitamin D3 along with vitamin K (avoid if you are on blood thinners). They are suitable for vegans and gluten-free diets.
Available from:
Vitl Vitamin D3
Available from Vitl (£5.95)
Price per day (recommended dose): 17p
Star rating: 4/5
Providing a substantial 25mcg (500% NRV) of vitamin D3, these vegan-friendly softgels include sunflower oil to enhance absorption. They come in a compact, travel-friendly tin and offer great value for the price.
Available from:
VitamoreD D3
Available from Vitamore (£12.99)
Price per day (recommended dose): 43p
Star rating: 4/5
This product, made from calcifediol (the form of vitamin D produced in the liver), claims to have greater potency and absorption compared to cholecalciferol, which is commonly found in other supplements. It contains 50mcg (1000% NRV) of vegan-suitable vitamin D3 in compact, portable capsules that are easy to take.
Available from:
Performance Lab D3+K2
Available from Performance Lab (from £19)
Price per day (recommended dose): 48p
Star rating: 3.5/5
While the initial cost is on the higher side (£57), this package provides a four-month supply of the suggested daily dose of 25mcg (500% NRV). These capsules contain vitamin K, which aids in calcium absorption into the bones; thus, they should be avoided by those on blood-thinning medications or with specific health issues. With vitamin D3 sourced from freeze-dried algae, this option is suitable for vegans. It is advisable to take with fatty foods, as it lacks added oils. Additionally, they are gluten-free and devoid of additives, preservatives, and artificial colors.
Other options for supplementing
Best vitamin D drinks
Zooki Vitamin D
Available from Victoria Health (£24.99 for two week supply), Zooki (£49.99 for one month supply)
Price per day (recommended dose): £1.67
Star rating: 4.5/5
This supplement comes in sachets containing 75mcg (1500% NRV) of vitamin D3 and vitamin K2 in an oil base. It can be consumed directly from the sachet or mixed into a smoothie, with testers describing the flavor as similar to mixed berry yogurt. It is suitable for vegans and free from preservatives, although it is one of the pricier options we assessed.
Available from:
Best vitamin D spray
BetterYou D3000+K2
Available from Amazon (£4.99), Better You (£7.49), Superdrug (£10.99), Holland & Barrett (£10.99)
Price per day (recommended dose): 37p
Star rating: 4.5/5
Three sprays administered inside your cheek provide 75mcg (1500% NRV) of vitamin D3, complemented by vitamin K2 for enhanced bone health. However, it carries a precautionary note for those on blood thinners, as vitamin K may not be suitable for them. The product, derived from lanolin, is not vegan, but testers appreciated its easy application and pleasant peppermint flavor.
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How much vitamin D should I take?
The NHS recommends a daily intake of 10 micrograms (or 400 International Units or IU) for most adults and children over the age of one, although individual needs may vary based on factors such as age, skin pigmentation, pregnancy or breastfeeding, and outdoor activity levels (with skin exposed).
As advised by our expert nutritionist, a daily dosage of 10-25mcg should suffice for most individuals. The NHS further specifies that adults should not exceed 100mcg (4000 IU) in a single day.
For labeling purposes, the Nutrient Reference Value (NRV), which appears on product labels, is set at 5mcg. This standard, established by the EU for food labeling, continues to be part of UK law.
How should I take a vitamin D supplement?
As vitamin D is fat-soluble, it is best taken with food to enhance absorption. Most in the UK should contemplate daily supplementation from October through late March, although individual needs may differ.
What form of vitamin D should I take?
Both Vitamin D2 and D3 can address deficiencies, though D3, naturally produced in the skin, is generally regarded as more bioactive and long-lasting. Vegans should be cautious, as D3 is often derived from lanolin (Extracted from sheep’s wool); alternatives made from lichen or micro-algae are preferable.
What format of vitamin D is best?
Opt for oil-based formulations as D3 is fat-soluble. This could take the form of capsules (or “pearls”), sprays (providing direct delivery by bypassing the gut), or liquids that can be incorporated into food or drinks.
Tablets may not digest as easily, while gummies or chewables – although more appealing for children – potentially suffer from heat and moisture sensitivity, influencing their stability and shelf life.
Including Vitamin K in your supplement could be beneficial, as it aids the body in calcium utilization; however, it’s not suitable for everyone, particularly those on blood thinners.
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If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews, or notice any changes in price or availability, please contact us at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.
All health content on goodfood.com is intended for general information and should not replace medical advice from your doctor or healthcare provider. If you have any health concerns, consult your local healthcare professional. For further information, see our terms and conditions.
Always ensure supplements are kept out of the reach of children.
Unless otherwise mentioned, we evaluated products suitable for the adult UK market.
Be sure to review the product label and ingredient list before purchase to confirm it is right for your specific needs.
