The National Institutes of Health has released updated vitamin D guidelines after research revealed that 42% of American adults are deficient, with rates even higher among Black and Hispanic populations.
Updated Recommendations
The new guidelines increase the recommended daily intake from 600 IU to 1,000 IU for adults, and up to 2,000 IU for those over 65. The NIH also recommends annual blood testing for vitamin D levels.
- 42% of US adults are vitamin D deficient
- New recommended daily intake: 1,000 IU (up from 600)
- Deficiency linked to bone loss, immune dysfunction, and depression
- 15-20 minutes of sun exposure provides approximately 10,000 IU
Best Food Sources
Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, fortified milk and orange juice, egg yolks, and mushrooms exposed to UV light are among the best dietary sources. However, most Americans cannot meet the new guidelines through diet alone.
