Vitamin D, as well as calcium, is essential to preventing osteoporosis and may reduce other health risks. While exposure to sunlight provides vitamin D, Canadians are at risk of seasonal vitamin D deficiency because winter does not contain enough ultraviolet B for vitamin D production. Supplements are necessary, as dietary intake is not enough.
Osteoporosis Canada’s guidelines (July 2010) recommend daily supplements of 400 to 1000 IU for adults under age 50 without osteoporosis or conditions affecting vitamin D absorption. For adults over 50, supplements of between 800 and 2000 IU are recommended. A daily supplement of 800 IU should be regarded as a minimum dose for all adults with osteoporosis.
At Sudbury District Nurse Practitioner Clinics, we have staff, including a registered dietitian, who can help you understand vitamin D and how much supplementation you require.
Courtesy of Osteoporosis Canada
