For the first time since 2011, the Endocrine Society has issued updated guidelines for vitamin D testing and supplementation. This report was published in the August 2024 issue. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and MetabolismHere we outline recommendations for physicians to share with their patients. The guidelines are based on multiple studies of people who not only got vitamin D naturally through daily sun exposure, but also from dietary sources and supplements. Below are some highlights.
- In the general population, adults over the age of 19 do not require regular testing of vitamin D levels. However, you should follow the U.S. National Academy of Medicine’s recommended dietary allowances for vitamin D intake: 600 International Units (IU) per day up to age 70 and 800 IU per day for those over 70.
- Vitamin D supplementation for older adults can be achieved through vitamin D-fortified foods (such as some breakfast cereals, orange juice, and yogurt) and vitamin D supplements. It is acceptable to take 1,000 IU of the supplement daily.
- Supplementation is recommended for adults who are at high risk for prediabetes. This is based on an analysis that suggests supplements may slow the progression of diabetes.
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