1. Skip to content
  2. Skip to main menu
  3. Skip to more DW sites
HealthGlobal issues

How vitamin D strengthens bones — and why too much is risky

04:35

This browser does not support the video element.

Christiane Stauss
February 16, 2026

Why is vitamin D so important for bones and overall health? We explore how the body produces it, how much we need, and why overdosing is dangerous.

Vitamin D is essential for strong bones, a stable mood, and overall health — yet many people have a deficiency without knowing it. Sunlight provides most of our vitamin D, while food offers only a small share. Low levels can weaken bones, raise the risk of stress fractures, and worsen osteoporosis. A daily low dose supplement can help, but high doses should only be taken under medical supervision.

Skip next section DW's Top Story

DW's Top Story

Skip next section More stories from DW

More stories from DW