Can Oral Immunotherapy Trials Offer New Hope for People with Nut and Other Allergies?

For millions of people across the UK and beyond, living with a severe nut allergy means constantly reading labels, carrying an adrenaline auto-injector, and sometimes missing out on shared meals, holidays, or even school trips. 

But a promising area of research, oral immunotherapy (OIT), may be about to change that.

What Is Oral Immunotherapy?

Oral immunotherapy involves giving someone a tiny, controlled doses of an allergen (like peanuts, tree nuts, or milk) in gradually increasing amounts over time. 

The goal is to train the immune system to become less reactive or even tolerant to the substance. It's not a cure, but it could reduce the risk of severe reactions from accidental exposure.

How OIT Trials Work

Participants in OIT trials usually start with a minute dose of the allergen, often a fraction of a milligram, and increase their intake slowly over several months under medical supervision. These trials are carefully monitored and often conducted in hospital settings due to the risk of reactions.

Recent UK-based and international trials, including studies at institutions like Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge and Imperial College London, have shown that up to 70–80% of participants can build up some level of desensitisation. That means they may not react, or may only have a mild reaction, if they accidentally eat a small amount of the allergen.

Who Might Benefit?

Children with peanut, hazelnut, or other tree nut allergies

People allergic to milk or eggs

Families hoping to reduce daily anxiety around food

Those at high risk of accidental exposure

However, OIT is not suitable for everyone, especially those with a history of severe or uncontrolled asthma or anaphylaxis. It’s important that any decision to begin this type of therapy be made with an allergy specialist.

Are There Risks?

Yes, OIT can cause allergic reactions, especially during the build-up phase. Some people experience gastrointestinal upset, mouth itching, or more serious reactions. That’s why trials are so vital—to determine who benefits most and how to keep them safe.

The Future of Allergy Care?

While OIT is still not widely available on the NHS, several trials are ongoing and commercial treatments (like Palforzia, a peanut allergy treatment approved in the UK) are emerging. With further research, personalised immunotherapy plans could become a mainstream part of allergy care.

Oral immunotherapy isn’t a magic bullet, but it may be a significant step forward in empowering people with food allergies to live more confidently. If you or your child are living with a nut or other food allergy, talk to your GP or allergy specialist about whether an OIT trial might be an option for you.

Indulging in Exotic Luxury: The Rise of Middle Eastern-Style Chocolates

Chocolate lovers are always on the lookout for something a little different, something new. And right now, it's all about Middle Eastern-inspired indulgence. 

Whether it's an infusion of rosewater, pistachio, tahini, dates, cardamom, or saffron, the Middle Eastern twist is making its way into everything from gourmet truffles to everyday chocolate bars.

A Sweet Tradition Meets Modern Luxury

The Middle East has a rich history of using dates, nuts, and spices in desserts, think baklava, ma’amoul, and halva. 

Today, those same ingredients are being elevated and reimagined in artisanal chocolate creations.

From luxury brands in Beirut and Dubai to boutique chocolatiers in London and Paris, the combination of fine chocolate and regional flavours is proving irresistible. 

Picture a dark chocolate ganache infused with orange blossom, or a creamy milk chocolate bar topped with crushed pistachios and a whisper of rose.

Why the Buzz?

These chocolates don’t just taste delicious. They also tell a story. They offer:

Exotic Flavour Profiles: A refreshing break from traditional European-style fillings.

Healthier Additions: Many use natural sweeteners like dates and incorporate ingredients like sesame or nuts, which are nutrient-rich.

Artisanal Appeal: Often handmade or small batch prepared, with luxurious packaging to match.

Cultural Connection: A way to enjoy flavours from across the globe in a familiar, beloved format.

Perfect for Gifting (or Treating Yourself)

Middle Eastern-style chocolates make beautiful gifts. They’re elegant, unexpected, and memorable, so are ideal for birthdays, wedding favours, dinner parties, Eid celebrations, or simply to brighten someone’s day.

Where to Try Them

In the UK, you can find these delights at high-end food halls, online confectioners, and at Middle Eastern delicatessens. Look for brands like Mirzam, Patchi, or local artisans blending British chocolate with Levantine flavours.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth with a Taste of the East. Because it’s Chocolate, But Not As You Know It.

The Latest Health Trends – Is Broccoli Juice the New Superfood?

In the ever-evolving world of health and wellness, new trends seem to pop up every week. The latest buzz? Broccoli juice. 

Touted by influencers and wellness gurus as a miracle drink packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and detoxifying powers, it has sparked a mix of curiosity, enthusiasm and scepticism.

But is broccoli juice actually good for you? And do any of these health claims stand up to scrutiny?

Let’s explore what’s really behind this green health trend, and a few others worth noting.

Broccoli Juice  A Superfood in a Glass?

Broccoli is well-known as a nutrient-dense vegetable. It’s rich in:

Vitamin C for immune support

Folate vital for cell function and tissue growth

Vitamin K essential for bone health and blood clotting

Sulforaphane a potent antioxidant with potential cancer-fighting properties

By juicing broccoli, you're essentially concentrating those nutrients into a more easily absorbed form. But the big question is: does it work?

The Good News:

Broccoli juice can be a quick way to boost your intake of micronutrients.

It may help reduce inflammation due to the high levels of antioxidants.

Some small-scale studies suggest sulforaphane could help support detoxification in the liver.

The Not-So-Good:

Juicing broccoli removes most of the fibre, which is crucial for digestive health and blood sugar control.

Drinking it raw can cause bloating or wind for some people, especially those with IBS.

The taste is strong and often requires mixing with other veg or fruits like apples or carrots to make it palatable.

Other Trending Health Elixirs

Garlic Shots

Raw garlic shots are said to be antiviral and heart-healthy. While garlic does have antimicrobial and cholesterol-lowering properties, it’s potent and can irritate the stomach lining if consumed excessively.

Mushroom Coffee

A mix of coffee and medicinal mushrooms (like lion’s mane or chaga) is trending for boosting focus and immunity. Early research is promising, but it’s not a replacement for medical treatments.

Celery Juice

Still hanging around the health scene, celery juice is thought to reduce bloating and support digestion. There’s little hard evidence, but it’s hydrating and high in potassium.

Do These Trends Work?

As with most health trends, the key is moderation and context. Broccoli juice and its trending companions aren’t miracle cures, but they can complement a healthy lifestyle. It’s important to:

Focus on whole foods where possible

Ensure your diet is balanced and varied

Not rely on any single food or drink for health or detoxification

Bottom Line

Broccoli juice is packed with nutrients and may offer health perks, but it’s no substitute for eating a varied diet with plenty of whole vegetables. If you enjoy it and it fits your lifestyle, go for it – but don’t be swayed by hype alone. Trends can inspire us to make healthier choices, but science, not social media, should guide the way.

Would you try broccoli juice? Or have you already? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Salmonella poisoning linked to tomatoes in the UK

What’s Happened

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported a 17% rise in Salmonella infections, reaching a decade-high 10,388 cases in 2024, up from 8,872 in 2023 

Among these, several outbreaks, two involving Salmonella Enteritidis, were traced back to eggs served at restaurants, while at least one cluster was linked to contaminated tomatoes.

Tomatoes in the Spotlight

A large-scale EU-wide Salmonella Strathcona outbreak affecting over 250 people has been linked to Italian tomatoes, implicating the UK among 16 countries.

There are 29 confirmed UK cases between January 2023 and November 2024, part of a multi-country outbreak tied to small cherry tomatoes from Sicily.

 How Did This Happen?

Investigations across Austria, Italy, Denmark and beyond pinpointed Sicilian cherry or snack tomatoes as the recurring culprit .

Whole-genome sequencing confirmed a genetic match between strains isolated from human cases and tomatoes 

Environmental assessments have flagged contaminated irrigation water and farm animals near tomato farms in Sicily as potential sources. 

Health Risks & Symptoms

Salmonella typically induces diarrhoea, fever, cramps, nausea, and vomiting, starting 1–3 days after exposure and lasting for up to about a week 

While most victims recover without medical treatment, young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals risk severe complications, death in some rare cases. 

The UKFSA advises thorough washing of tomatoes and other fresh produce under running water to reduce contamination.

Public health authorities are on alert, working with EU partners to trace and test tomato imports, and investigating supply chains from Sicily .

Consumer tips:

Rinse tomatoes thoroughly under running water, include those with vine attached.

Cook tomatoes if unsure of origin (e.g., in sauces or soups).

Wash hands and surfaces after handling fresh produce to prevent cross‑contamination.

For vulnerable individuals:

Be extra cautious or avoid eating raw, imported tomatoes until the situation improves.

Looking Ahead

Continuous monitoring and genomic testing are underway to:

Trace the exact source and contamination route back to Sicily.

Identify environmental vectors like water, soil, or animals on farms.

Implement tighter safety controls in affected supply chains to prevent future outbreaks .

Summary

UK is experiencing a notable rise in Salmonella illness, with confirmed tomato‑linked cases as part of a broader European outbreak.

Sicilian cherry tomatoes have been repeatedly named as the contagion source via genomic tracing.

Proper handling, cooking, and hygiene can greatly reduce risk, especially for high‑risk groups.

UK Food Industry Leaders Reaffirm Critical Support for the Amazon Soy Moratorium Amid Growing Threats

Over 50 top UK businesses, representing over 60% of the UK’s demand for soy, have reaffirmed their support for the Amazon Soy Moratorium (ASM), a groundbreaking, voluntary agreement that has substantially helped decouple soy production from deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon since it was introduced in 2008.

The message was delivered by the UK Soy Manifesto, whose signatories include some of the country’s most recognisable food industry leaders including leading UK supermarkets, large restaurant chains, food manufacturers and ingredients businesses. 

It's come at a critical moment, as the ASM faces mounting pressure from the agribusiness sector and new legislation that threatens to dismantle its protections.

New state-level legislation in Brazil - including the withdrawal of tax incentives for companies adhering to the ASM –is widely viewed as an attempt to weaken the effectiveness and international credibility of the Moratorium, which is backed by a wide range of NGOs including Greenpeace and WWF.

“The ASM has been one of the most effective voluntary agreements in tackling deforestation. Weakening it now risks reversing one of the most successful forest conservation models in modern history,” Jonathan Gorman, Secretariat, UK Soy Manifesto told That's Food and Drink.

Since its adoption, the ASM has helped prevent the conversion of over 1.8 million hectares of Amazon forest. Today, over 98% of soy grown in the Amazon biome is compliant, meaning soy is now responsible for just 0.2% of direct deforestation in the region.

If the Moratorium were to collapse it would undermine the efforts of global supply chain actors – farmers, soy traders, feed producers and food companies - committed to supporting sustainable production of soy and remove long standing supply chain controls.

It would also harm Brazil’s international standing as a sustainable producer just as it prepares to host COP30.

It doesn't prevent future soy production: 1.7m hectares of land on existing soy properties cleared prior to 2008 could be used for expanded soy production without encroaching on protected forests and risking  further deforestation.

The UK Soy Manifesto is calling on all parties to maintain and strengthen the Moratorium as a vital safeguard for the Amazon rainforest and the global climate.

The full statement from the UK Soy Manifesto can be found at the below link

https://www.uksoymanifesto.uk

Flawsome! Reveals Its Latest Masterpiece 1L Cold-Pressed Juices in Gallery-worthy Cartons

Flawsome!, the brand known for turning so-called “wonky” surplus fruit into delicious cold-pressed juice, is launching its boldest range yet: 1L ambient cold-pressed juices in its most iconic flavours: Sweet & Sour Apple, and Orange, with the full collection to be revealed soon.

Developed specifically for out-of-home (OOH) and at-home consumption, this larger format offers all the flavour and in a new gallery-worthy carton inspired by the old masters of the art world. It’s designed to look beautiful on a bar, in a restaurant, and your own kitchen shelf.

“We call it a masterpiece for a reason. It’s made with the same cold-pressed craft as our smaller bottles, only now it’s dressed in gallery-inspired packaging and scaled to help save even more wonky fruit,” Karina Sudenyte, co-founder of Flawsome! told That's Food and Drink.

Flawsome! juices are already poured at The Royal Opera House or British Library, but this new 1L format is designed to go even further. It aligns with 2025’s predicted growth in large-format juice, and the rising demand for healthier, sustainable, aesthetically pleasing, and at-home-friendly options.

Why Now?

◦ The UK juice market is evolving: While total volume is predicted to dip slightly, 1L formats are growing due to shifting habits and consumers becoming more and more health conscious.

◦ At-home juice consumption is booming: Projected to reach 950 million litres by 2025.

◦ OOH remains strong, with over 116 million litres expected to be consumed in 2025.

◦ Flawsome! plans to quadruple production in two years, with this format at the forefront.

And in true Flawsome! style, this isn’t just about juice, it’s about saving more wonky fruit from being wasted.

The 1L range is also part of the brand’s ongoing strategy to mitigate the impact of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), by introducing more efficient and sustainable packaging at scale.

Available from July through Brakes, Bidfood, DDC, and a growing list of leading wholesalers soon to be announced.

Cold-Pressed. 100% Juice. 0% Boring.

Perfect for smoothies, cocktails, or let the juice stand alone at its own work of art.

This range is as versatile as it is beautiful.

Want to taste it? Stock it? Serve it at your next gallery opening or brunch service?

Reach out, they're pouring soon! 

https://flawsomedrinks.com

Today's The Day! Celebrate National Blackcurrant Day: A Berry British Treasure

Every 15th July, we celebrate National Blackcurrant Day,  a day to honour one of Britain’s most beloved and overlooked berries. 

While strawberries and raspberries often steal the limelight, the humble blackcurrant deserves its moment to shine. From its deep, tangy flavour to its impressive nutritional benefits, the blackcurrant is truly a national treasure.

A Brief History of the Blackcurrant in Britain

Blackcurrants have long been part of British gardens and countryside hedgerows. During the Second World War, when citrus fruits were hard to import, the UK government promoted blackcurrants as a rich source of vitamin C. 

Many of us will fondly remember the sweet, rich taste of blackcurrant cordial,  particularly the iconic Ribena, launched in 1938 and fortified with vitamin C. And still going strong nearly 90 years later!

Today, the UK produces around 90% of the world’s blackcurrant crop, most of it still destined for juice and cordial, though awareness of its culinary versatility is growing.

Why Celebrate Blackcurrants?

1. Nutritional Powerhouse

Blackcurrants are packed with vitamin C, more than three times the amount found in oranges, and are also rich in antioxidants, fibre, and anthocyanins, which give them their deep purple hue. These compounds support immune health, heart function, and may even help fight inflammation.

2. A Taste Like No Other

With their tart, tangy flavour and dark richness, blackcurrants are unique among berries. They lend themselves beautifully to jams, sauces, desserts, and even savoury dishes.

3. A True British Crop

Over 3,500 acres of UK farmland are dedicated to growing blackcurrants. The berries thrive in Britain’s cooler climate, and growers have worked closely with scientists to develop hardy, flavourful varieties.

How to Celebrate National Blackcurrant Day

Cook with blackcurrants: Bake a blackcurrant crumble, add them to a pavlova, or simmer them into a tangy sauce for pork or lamb.

Sip the flavour: Enjoy a glass of traditional blackcurrant cordial, or mix up a blackcurrant gin cocktail.

Visit a pick-your-own farm: July is the peak season for fresh blackcurrants, perfect for a summer’s day out.

Support local producers: Look for artisan jams, juices, and preserves that use British-grown blackcurrants.

Get the kids involved: Make homemade blackcurrant lollies or add them to yoghurt for a healthy treat.

Blackcurrants in Popular Culture

Blackcurrants have long been a staple of British food culture. While Ribena is perhaps the most famous blackcurrant product, you’ll also find the flavour in everything from fruit gums to herbal teas.

Interestingly, blackcurrants were banned in the United States for decades due to concerns they helped spread a tree disease affecting the timber industry. Though the ban has now been lifted in many states, they remain far less common across the pond, making them all the more uniquely British.

A Berry to Be Proud Of

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to this deeply British berry, National Blackcurrant Day is the perfect time to rediscover its charms. Tangy, nutritious, and steeped in history, the blackcurrant is more than worthy of celebration.

So why not pick up a punnet, pour a cordial, or pop a blackcurrant sweet, and raise a toast to one of the UK's finest fruits?

Granulated Sugar Substitutes – The Sweet Alternatives That Look and Act Like Sugar

Whether you're cutting back on sugar for health reasons, managing diabetes, or simply trying to live a more balanced lifestyle, finding a good sugar substitute that doesn't feel like a compromise can be tricky. 

Fortunately, there are now several granulated sugar alternatives that mimic the texture, appearance, and sweetness of real sugar, making them perfect for baking, beverages, and everyday use.

Here’s a closer look at some of the best granulated sugar substitutes available in the UK, how they compare to sugar, and what to consider when using them.

What Makes a Good Granulated Sugar Substitute?

Not all sweeteners are created equal. Some come in liquid form, others are intensely sweet and must be used sparingly, while a few, our focus here, are granulated and can be used one-for-one like regular sugar. The best ones:

Have a similar texture to sugar

Are suitable for cooking and baking

Don’t leave a strange aftertaste

Have fewer calories or a lower glycaemic impact

Top Granulated Sugar Substitutes to Try

1. Erythritol

Sweetness: About 70% as sweet as sugar

Calories: Almost zero

Pros: Bakes well, no impact on blood sugar, tooth-friendly

Cons: Can cause digestive discomfort in large quantities

Often sold under brand names like Sukrin or PureVia, erythritol is popular for its sugar-like crystal structure and clean, neutral taste.

2. Xylitol

Sweetness: Equal to sugar

Calories: Around 2.4 per gram (about 40% fewer than sugar)

Pros: Same sweetness and texture as sugar, good for teeth

Cons: Toxic to dogs, may cause stomach upset in some people

Brands such as Total Sweet offer xylitol in granulated form, ideal for hot drinks and baking.

3. Stevia Blends (with Erythritol)

Sweetness: Same as sugar when blended

Calories: Very low

Pros: Natural origin, great for baking, widely available

Cons: Pure stevia can be bitter, blends are better. Also some people report being allergic to stevia.

Look for products like Natvia or Truvia Baking Blend, which combine stevia with erythritol to reduce aftertaste and create a sugar-like texture.

4. Allulose (Still limited in the UK)

Sweetness: About 70% as sweet as sugar

Calories: Nearly zero

Pros: Caramelises like sugar, no blood sugar spike

Cons: Expensive and harder to find in the UK

While not yet widely available here, allulose is gaining interest among foodies and low-carb bakers for its impressive baking properties.

5. Inulin-Based Sweeteners

Sweetness: Varies (often blended with stevia or erythritol)

Calories: Low

Pros: Prebiotic benefits, subtle sweetness

Cons: Can affect digestive system

Brands like Sukrin Fibre Syrup Gold or certain own-label 'fibre sweeteners' use inulin to mimic sugar with added health perks.

Tips for Baking with Sugar Substitutes

Check ratios: Some sweeteners are more or less sweet than sugar. Always read the label for conversion.

Watch browning: Not all substitutes caramelise, so baked goods may not brown like traditional recipes.

Texture matters: Sugar provides structure in baking. Consider adding apple purée, yoghurt, or eggs to maintain moisture.

Start small: Some people need time to adjust to the taste of sugar alternatives.

Where to Buy

You can find these granulated sugar alternatives in most UK supermarkets (look in the baking aisle or 'free from' section), as well as online retailers like Amazon, Holland & Barrett, and specialist low-carb food shops.

In Summary

Sugar substitutes have come a long way, and today's granulated options can help you enjoy your favourite recipes with fewer health risks and just as much sweetness. Whether you're after calorie control, managing diabetes, or just want to shake off the sugar habit, there’s a granulated option out there that fits your needs.

Have you tried any of these in your baking or tea? Let us know your favourites, or any recipe disasters, in the comments below!

The Hidden Side-Effects of Fat-Reducing Injections That Some GPs Might Miss

In recent years, fat-reducing injections, like those containing deoxycholic acid (e.g., Aqualyx or Kybella), have surged in popularity as non-surgical alternatives to liposuction. 

Touted as a quick fix for stubborn fat, these injections are often marketed in clinics and medispas, and are even discussed in GP consultations when patients express concerns about body image or weight management. 

But while the physical effects may seem subtle and appealing, there are several side-effects, some overlooked even by general practitioners, that are important to consider.

What Are Fat-Reducing Injections?

Fat-dissolving injections work by breaking down fat cell membranes, allowing the body to absorb and naturally dispose of the released fat. Typically used for areas such as double chins, thighs, or love handles, they can seem like an ideal solution for those looking to sculpt their bodies without invasive surgery.

However, these injections are not without risks, and not all side-effects are well-known or routinely discussed.

Side-Effects GPs Might Miss or Underestimate

1. Prolonged Swelling and Inflammation

While mild swelling is expected, some patients experience inflammation that lasts for several weeks. In certain cases, it can lead to the development of firm lumps under the skin, which may take months to resolve—or might require intervention.

2. Nerve Damage

Deoxycholic acid can, if injected incorrectly or in overly high quantities, damage surrounding nerves. This could result in:

Numbness

Muscle weakness

Tingling or shooting pain

Such side-effects can be temporary, but some patients report lingering issues, especially when injections are administered without ultrasound guidance or appropriate anatomical knowledge.

3. Skin Necrosis

In rare but serious cases, compromised blood flow from the injection can cause the surrounding skin tissue to die (necrosis). This is more likely when fat-dissolving injections are used off-label or administered by poorly trained practitioners.

4. Hormonal Implications

Although less documented in official guidance, anecdotal evidence and emerging studies suggest that disrupting fat cells may have minor hormonal ripple effects, particularly for those with existing hormonal imbalances such as PCOS or thyroid conditions. Some GPs may not yet be attuned to these interactions.

5. Immune Responses

Some patients experience immune system overreactions, such as persistent itching, rashes, or autoimmune flare-ups. While these are relatively rare, they are not always linked back to the injections—especially if they occur weeks after the procedure.

6. Emotional and Psychological Side-Effects

Changing one’s appearance, even slightly, can have a significant psychological impact. Patients with underlying body dysmorphia or disordered eating behaviours may find themselves fixated on further "problem areas," leading to an unhealthy spiral of repeat procedures or poor self-image. GPs without specific training in aesthetic medicine may overlook this risk.

Vitamin D Deficiency: What It Means and How to Supplement It Through Your Diet

Vitamin D, often called the “sunshine vitamin”, plays a vital role in maintaining healthy bones, supporting the immune system, and helping the body absorb calcium. 

Yet, many people in the UK are deficient in it, especially during the autumn and winter months when sunlight is scarce. 

A lack of vitamin D can lead to issues such as fatigue, bone pain, muscle weakness, and even increased susceptibility to infections.

Why Vitamin D Deficiency Happens

In the UK, sunlight isn’t strong enough from October to March for our skin to make adequate vitamin D. 

This is especially true for people who spend most of their time indoors, wear clothing that covers most of their skin, or have darker skin (as more melanin reduces the skin's ability to produce vitamin D from sunlight).

Diet alone is unlikely to provide enough vitamin D, but it can help maintain levels, especially when supported with supplements.

Signs You Might Be Deficient

Some common signs of vitamin D deficiency include:

Frequent illnesses or infections

Tiredness or fatigue

Bone and back pain

Depression or low mood

Impaired wound healing

Muscle pain or weakness

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s worth speaking to your GP or pharmacist. A simple blood test can confirm whether your vitamin D levels are low.

Foods That Are Naturally High in Vitamin D

To help boost your intake, include these foods in your diet:

Oily fish (e.g. salmon, sardines, mackerel, trout)

Cod liver oil

Egg yolks

Red meat (especially liver)

Fortified foods such as:

Breakfast cereals

Plant-based milks (soya, oat, almond, etc.)

Margarine and some dairy products

Orange juice (check the label)

Mushrooms exposed to sunlight (labelled as "UV-exposed") are also a vegan-friendly option that naturally contains vitamin D2.

Should You Take a Supplement?

Public Health England recommends that everyone over the age of 1 should consider taking a 10 microgram (400 IU) vitamin D supplement daily during the autumn and winter. People at higher risk of deficiency (e.g. those who are housebound, elderly, or have darker skin) are advised to consider supplements year-round.

Vitamin D supplements are widely available in pharmacies, supermarkets, and health food shops. You can find it as:

Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) – plant-based

Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) – usually from animal sources or vegan-friendly lichen

A Note on Safety

Avoid taking high doses of vitamin D for prolonged periods unless advised by a healthcare professional. While toxicity is rare, extremely high levels can cause health problems such as kidney damage.

In Summary

Vitamin D is essential, especially for people living in northern climates like the UK. You can top up your vitamin D through oily fish, fortified foods, and safe sun exposure when possible — but during the darker months, a daily supplement is often the most practical way to keep your levels healthy.

Have you checked your vitamin D levels recently? It might be worth adding a little sunshine to your routine — even if it's in tablet form.