News: Osteoporosis Canada ups vitamin D recommendations

Taking a vitamin D supplement may seem like a no-brainer’research suggests that not having enough of this ‘sunshine vitamin’ may lead to a higher risk of diseases including breast cancer, cardiovascular diseases and osteoporosis (and studies haven’t yet determined if our bodies can produce enough vitamin D from the sun to prevent diseases). How much to take is a bit more difficult to discern’recommended doses have been inconsistent across medical associations. But Osteoporosis Canada has just issued updated guidelines that recommend a daily dose of 400 to 1,000 IU for people under 50 and 800 to 2,000 IU for people older than 50. That’s an increase from their previous recommendation of 400 IU per day.

The updated guidelines, published Monday in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, are more in line with the Canadian Dermatology Association and the Canadian Cancer Society’s recommendations of 1,000 IU per day. Why the increase? The last time Osteoporosis Canada updated their guidelines was 2002, Dr. Bill Leslie, chair of the organization’s scientific advisory council told the Canadian Press. New research led the organization to up their recommendation. It should be noted that Health Canada’s recommended daily dose is 200 IU for people under 50 and 400 IU for those 50 to 70. Of course, the best way to determine the right dose for you is to speak to your healthcare professional.

Do you take a vitamin D supplement?

Related:
‘ The best sources of vitamin D
‘ Vitamin needs at every age
‘ Ask your doctor about the vitamin D test