Vitamin D Deficiency: An Epidemic?

How much do we need?
Current guidelines established by the National Academy of Sciences currently recommend daily values of 200 IU (International Units) for children and adults up to age 50, 400 IU for adults ages 51-70, and 600 IU for adults over 70. However, many experts believe that a daily value closer to 800-1000 IU may be more beneficial.

Where can we get it?
Sunlight is an important way for our skin to convert vitamin D to its active form. Only a small amount of sun exposure, perhaps ten minutes a few times a week, is all that is needed to produce adequate amounts. However, this varies based on skin type, season, time of day, and location. It is important to note that UV light is a known carcinogen and it is difficult to make regulations for limited usage. This is because people will often abuse this thinking, ‘if a little is good, more is better.”

Diet is another important way. However, as with calcium intake, it is difficult to get enough from dietary amounts, especially with lactose intolerant individuals, calorie counting, and extensive drinking of soft drinks.

While the vitamin D story is not yet over, it is important, especially if one has osteoporosis or decreased mineralization, to get their level checked and discuss with their physician the proper way to maintain adequate levels.