The U.S. Skin Cancer Foundation has revised its vitamin D recommendations for adults who have limited sun exposure from 400 to 1000 international units (IUs) every day.
"Based on the current data, we feel comfortable recommending this increase," says the chairman of The Skin Cancer Foundation's Photobiology Committee in a prepared statement.
The Foundation recommends that vitamin D be obtained from a combination of dietary sources - and vitamin D supplements - as getting 1000 IU of vitamin D daily from food alone can be difficult.
Most people with limited sun exposure will need to take a vitamin D supplement to get the recommended 1000 IUs per day, notes the Photobiology Committee.
Since June 2007, The Canadian Cancer Society has been recommending 1,000 international units of vitamin D a day in fall and winter, and year round for those over 50 or with darker skin.
Health Canada is aware of the growing body of evidence on the role of vitamin D in relation to health. Before Health Canada can issue a revised vitamin D recommendation for Canadians, a comprehensive review of this vitamin's benefits and safety needs to be undertaken.
All research on this web site is the property of Leslie Beck Nutrition Consulting Inc. and is protected by copyright. Keep in mind that research on these matters continues daily and is subject to change. The information presented is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. It is intended to provide ongoing support of your healthy lifestyle practices.