The number of Americans taking vitamin D supplements has shot up over the past year, according to a new survey, suggesting that awareness of the vitamin has increased.

Conducted by Ipsos for the supplement group Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), the survey revealed that 66 percent of American adults classify themselves as supplement users, which is consistent with usage levels over the past few years.

Out of these consumers, 27 percent say they take vitamin D supplements, which marks an increase from 16 percent last year and 16 percent in 2008.

According to CRN, the increased usage figures reflect the growing evidence supporting the benefits of the sunshine vitamin.