Researchers in East London talked to nine older adults from minority ethnic backgrounds to understand what they know about vitamin D and why they might not get enough of it. They found that while people had heard of vitamin D, most didn’t know which foods contain it. The biggest challenges included the cost of supplements, not getting enough sun, and cultural differences in eating habits and beliefs about sun exposure. The study suggests that communities need better education about vitamin D, especially targeting women who often make food decisions for their families. Supplements were seen more positively than adding vitamin D to foods, and researchers recommend that health officials work directly with communities to create solutions that fit their specific needs.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: How older adults from minority ethnic groups in East London understand vitamin D deficiency, what stops them from getting enough vitamin D, and what solutions they think would work best.
  • Who participated: Nine people aged 60 and older from minority ethnic communities in East London. Seven were interviewed in person and two by phone. They were found through local organizations, council offices, and websites.
  • Key finding: Most participants had heard of vitamin D but couldn’t name foods that contain it. Cost of supplements, limited sun exposure, and cultural eating habits were the main barriers to getting enough vitamin D. People were open to taking supplements and wanted better education about vitamin D in their communities.
  • What it means for you: If you’re an older adult from a minority ethnic background, you’re not alone if you’re confused about vitamin D. This research suggests that health programs should be designed specifically for your community’s needs, with education that respects your cultural practices and involves trusted community members, especially women in your family.

The Research Details

This was a qualitative study, which means researchers asked people questions and listened to their answers rather than testing a treatment. Nine older adults from minority ethnic groups in East London participated in semi-structured interviews—conversations where researchers asked prepared questions but let people share their thoughts freely. Seven people met with researchers in person, and two participated by phone. The researchers found participants through local organizations, government offices, and email contacts. They then analyzed all the interviews to find common themes and patterns in what people said about vitamin D.

This type of research is important because it helps us understand not just whether people have vitamin D deficiency, but why—and what they actually think about solutions. Numbers alone can’t tell us about cultural beliefs, family traditions, or practical barriers like cost. By listening directly to people from these communities, researchers can identify solutions that will actually work in real life, rather than solutions that might work in theory but don’t fit people’s lives.

This study is small (only 9 people), so the findings may not apply to everyone. However, the researchers used careful methods to analyze the interviews and identify themes. The study was published in a peer-reviewed journal, meaning other experts reviewed it before publication. The main strength is that it gives voice to older adults from minority communities whose experiences are often overlooked. The main limitation is the small size, which means we should see these findings as a starting point for bigger research, not as definitive answers.

What the Results Show

The research identified four main themes. First, participants had some knowledge of vitamin D but it was limited—most couldn’t name specific foods containing it. Second, people got their vitamin D information from various sources including doctors, family, and the internet, but these sources didn’t always provide complete information. Third, several barriers prevented people from getting enough vitamin D: the cost of supplements, difficulty accessing sunshine (due to weather, work, or cultural clothing practices), and cultural factors like traditional diets that don’t include many vitamin D-rich foods. Fourth, participants suggested solutions including supplements (which they viewed positively), fortified foods (which had mixed reactions), and education programs. Importantly, participants emphasized that education should happen within their communities and should especially target women, who they identified as key decision-makers for family nutrition.

The study revealed that attitudes toward different solutions varied by culture and personal preference. Some people were concerned about the safety or necessity of supplements, while others were open to them. Food fortification—adding vitamin D to existing foods—was more controversial, with some people worried about processed foods or preferring natural sources. The research also showed that sun exposure beliefs were influenced by cultural practices, religious considerations, and concerns about skin cancer or skin darkening. Family structure and women’s roles in food preparation emerged as important factors that health programs should consider.

Previous research has shown that older adults and people from minority ethnic groups are at higher risk for vitamin D deficiency. This study adds important context by explaining the cultural, practical, and knowledge-based reasons why. While other studies have measured vitamin D levels, this research goes deeper by asking people what they think and what would actually help them. It confirms that one-size-fits-all health messages don’t work and that communities need tailored approaches.

The study included only nine people, which is a small number. All participants were from East London, so findings may not apply to other areas. The study didn’t include information about participants’ actual vitamin D levels or health outcomes—it only captured their perceptions and beliefs. The researchers used purposive and snowball sampling (asking participants to recommend others), which might mean they talked to people with similar views. Finally, the study was conducted in English, which may have excluded people who speak other languages primarily.

The Bottom Line

Based on this research, health officials should: (1) Develop vitamin D education programs specifically for minority ethnic communities, delivered by trusted community members; (2) Target women as key educators within families; (3) Make information about vitamin D-rich foods that fit cultural diets; (4) Address practical barriers like supplement cost; (5) Respect cultural practices around sun exposure and clothing. These recommendations have moderate confidence because they come from a small study, but they align with what people actually said they need.

This research is most relevant for older adults aged 60+ from minority ethnic backgrounds, their families, healthcare providers serving these communities, and public health officials. It’s particularly important for women in these communities who make food decisions. Healthcare providers should use this information to have more culturally sensitive conversations about vitamin D. People from majority ethnic backgrounds may also benefit from some of these insights, as cultural and practical barriers to vitamin D aren’t unique to minority groups.

If you start taking vitamin D supplements or eating more vitamin D-rich foods, it typically takes 2-3 months to see improvements in blood vitamin D levels. However, you might feel benefits like improved mood or energy within weeks. It’s important to check with your doctor about your specific vitamin D needs and to have your levels tested to know if you’re getting enough.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Track weekly vitamin D intake by logging: (1) Supplement doses taken (yes/no), (2) Servings of vitamin D-rich foods eaten (fatty fish, fortified milk, egg yolks), and (3) Minutes of sun exposure. This creates a simple weekly scorecard showing progress toward vitamin D goals.
  • Use the app to set a specific, achievable goal like ‘Take vitamin D supplement 5 days per week’ or ‘Eat one vitamin D-rich food daily.’ The app can send reminders tied to existing habits (like taking a supplement with breakfast) and celebrate weekly wins to build motivation.
  • Track vitamin D habits monthly and share results with your doctor at regular checkups. The app can generate simple reports showing consistency over time. Set a reminder to discuss vitamin D levels with your healthcare provider every 3-6 months, especially if you’re making changes to your intake.

This research describes what older adults from minority ethnic communities think about vitamin D, but it does not provide medical advice. Vitamin D needs vary by individual based on age, skin tone, location, and health conditions. Before starting supplements or making major dietary changes, consult with your healthcare provider or registered dietitian. They can test your vitamin D levels and recommend the right amount for you. This study involved only nine people in one area of London, so results may not apply to everyone. Always discuss any health concerns with a qualified healthcare professional.