Researchers at Creighton University Medical Center recently reported that much higher daily doses of vitamin D are needed to prevent serious disease than previously thought.

In their study, researchers compared the Vitamin D intake and accompanying blood levels in a group of 3,667 people who took supplements ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 IU of vitamin D a day. Results showed that 10,000 IU a day was not toxic, while a daily dose of 4,000 to 8,000 IU was needed to lower the risk for breast cancer, colon cancer, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes. The evidence also suggests that 9,600 IU might be needed to ensure that 97.5% of the population reaches a blood value found to dramatically lower the risk for these serious diseases. 

The current recommendation established by the National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine (IOM) ranges from 400 to 800 IU. The IOM also acknowledges that a daily intake of 4,000 IU of vitamin D appears safe for adults and children, age nine and older. The results of this study suggest that intakes much higher than this might be beneficial and are still below the 10,000 IU a day limit established by the IOM as the lower end for potential risk.

The take home point? This study once again reconfirms that if you want to achieve optimal benefits from vitamin D supplementation, it is absolutely essential to assess your vitamin D level.  

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Source:

Garland C, French C, Baggerly L, et al: Vitamin D supplement doses and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D in the range associated with cancer prevention. Anticancer Research 2011;31:607-611.