By Peggy L. Manuel, MD, FAAP
Contributing Writer - Integrative Health Expert
About the Author
August 6, 2009
1. Newborns
The American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends 400 IU vitamin D3 daily starting from birth. Liquid vitamin D drops containing 400 IU per drop can be used.
2. Children Over 1 Year Old
Research suggests that about 1,000 IU vitamin D3 per 25 lb. may be needed in addition to any multivitamins or vitamin D milk, even in sunny areas like Southern California. For a child one year or older, 1,000 IU vitamin D3 daily may be reasonable (especially in winter or when sick). 1,000 IU daily or 2,000 IU every other day (M/W/F) works fine.
3. Anyone Over 12 Years Old
Research suggests that about 2,000 IU vitamin D3 daily (in addition to multivitamins, milk or sunshine) may be needed. After 2 - 3 months of supplementation, persons with dark skin, health concerns and those who are overweight may wish to request a blood test for 25OHvitaminD level to see if more supplementation would be helpful.
4. Pregnant or Breast-Feeding Women
Research suggests women need 3,000 - 5,000 IU daily while pregnant, and 4,000 - 6,000 IU vitamin D3 daily while breast-feeding for optimum health. These recommendations are not yet endorsed by the American College of OB-GYN, although they are considering revising upward the current recommendations.
Note on Sunshine: Those preferring to use sunshine to obtain sufficient vitamin D levels should be aware that sun exposure would need to be between 10 am and 2 pm without sunblock, and does not work through windows. The ideal amount of time would be about one-fourth the amount of time before burning. (Sunburns are strongly discouraged.) These recommendations are not presently endorsed by most dermatologists due to concerns about photoaging and skin cancer. For more information, visit the Vitamin D Council or GrassrootsHealth. (See especially the video with Dr. Michael Holick and the Disease Prevention Incidence Chart.)
Vitamin D Benefits: Researchers recommend a goal of 40-60ng/ml 25-OH vitamin D levels (60-75ng/ml for cancer patients per cancer researcher Donald Trump, MD). The benefits of sufficient 25-OH vitamin D levels include preventing rickets, strengthening muscles, bones and teeth, lowering blood pressure, reducing the risk of falling, diabetes, cancer, autoimmune disorders, cardiovascular disease and death from all causes, as well as boosting the immune system against viruses (including influenza), bacteria, and tuberculosis. Vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of depression, preeclampsia in pregnancy and perhaps even autism.
