Will the Cabinet Secretary make a statement on the use of Vitamin D supplements to help prevent colds and flu in Wales?
Recent research published in the British Medical Journal has suggested that there may be a relationship between low vitamin D levels and acute respiratory infections. These findings have not been regarded as sufficient enough to change our existing advice which is based on the recommendations of the Scientific Advisory Committee for Nutrition (SACN), an expert independent group which advises Governments in the UK.
Our advice remains that vitamin D supplements should be taken up to the age of four, and by those with very little or no sunshine exposure. The rest of the population should consider taking a vitamin D supplement, especially in the winter months.