Vitamin D Craze

Recently there has been a push for supplementation of vitamin D. Let's look at the facts.

Vitamin D's primary role is in bone and tooth health. This has been known for decades. More recent research reveals a role in muscle and immune function as well.

High doses can result in hypercalcemia and even death. It's not possible to overdose on vitamin D from the sun - only from food and/or supplements.

On the other hand, a deficiency can cause Rickets or Osteomalacia which is abnormal mineralization of bones.

Studies have shown that about half of the elderly are deficient and that they need more than younger people. The recommended amount for the elderly is 600 IU per day.

There is also evidence to suggest that colorectal cancer is inversely related to the blood level of vitamin D. However, you need several thousand IU per day for this. As such, there is a controversy regarding the upper limit. It may be too conservative. Several studies have demonstrated that one can go up to several thousand IU per day without negative side effects.