Medical societies issue joint guidance on vitamin D

Several medical societies have issued guidance on the use of vitamin D, highlighting the importance of achieving the daily recommended dose, especially during lockdown when more individuals are inside.

The American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR), American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE), Endocrine Society, European Calcified Tissue Society (ECTS), National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), and International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) issued the statement, “Joint Guidance on Vitamin D in the Era of COVID-19”

Vitamin D in combination with calcium, the said, helps to build strong skeletons and prevent bone loss. Although spending 15-30 minutes in direct sunlight is one of the best sources of vitamin D, as a result of the pandemic people may be spending less time outdoors.

“For those unable to spend at least 15-30 minutes with direct sun exposure each day, the easiest way to acquire vitamin D is through food supplemented with vitamin D and/or vitamin D nutritional supplements,” they wrote. “Although some foods in the U.S. and elsewhere are fortified with vitamin D, the levels are often fairly low.”

When taken at a reasonable dose, vitamin D is considered safe. Most adults can take 400-1000 IU daily to keep vitamin D levels within the optimal range, the societies recommended.

Reference

Joint guidance on vitamin D in the era of COVID-19 from the ASBMR, AACE, Endocrine Society, ECTS, NOF, and IOF. Available at: https://www.asbmr.org/ASBMRStatementsDetail/joint-guidance-on-vitamin-d-in-era-of-covid-19-fro