The growing number of people who have sedentary routines spent mainly indoors are not receiving enough of the vitamin and are more at risk of osteoporosis. The condition particularly affects post-menopausal women, who can suffer from weakened bones as their oestrogen levels drop.

The charity Women’s Health Concern is giving warning that even women who are already being treated for the disease may have inadequate levels of vitamin D.

One study has found that 97 per cent of hip fracture patients were suffering from a shortage of vitamin D, which is essential for healthy bones.

Karen Winterhalter, the charity’s chief executive, said that the research was very worrying. She said that people should spend more time in the sunshine and, if necessary, take vitamin supplements to help to strengthen their bones.

Exposure to sunlight is the most important source of vitamin D, although the body’s ability to convert sunlight decreases with age.

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