Vitamin D intake recommendations vary widely, with some healthcare providers suggesting that 600 IU of vitamin D per day is adequate, while others advocate for 5000 IU or more.
So, what does this mean for individuals trying to determine their optimal vitamin D intake, and is high-dose vitamin D supplementation safe?
Discover who may benefit from taking high doses of vitamin D and learn why vitamin D testing is crucial to identify safe and effective vitamin D intake levels.
What is vitamin D deficiency?
Vitamin D deficiency is characterized by insufficient vitamin D levels, which increases the risk of health issues, including weakened bones, osteoporosis, and compromised immune functions.
According to the NIH, vitamin D deficiency occurs when serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, the active form of vitamin D, fall below 12 ng/ml (30 nmol/L).
Vitamin D concentrations between 12 and 20 ng/ml (30 to 50 nmol/L) are considered inadequate and linked to suboptimal bone health and increased osteoporosis risk.
Vitamin D insufficiency is typically caused by a combination of factors, including age, limited sun exposure, obesity, and certain medical conditions that can impair vitamin D absorption.
Additionally, people with darker skin tones may require more sunlight to produce sufficient vitamin D, significantly increasing their risk of deficiency.
