Vitamin D deficiency is becoming very prevalent in the United States. It is estimated that approximately 30-50% of the population is deficient in Vitamin D. Across the age groups, one study shows that among 19-49 yr olds, 77% have insufficient levels of vitamin D, whereas 75% of 55+ yr olds are deficient in vitamin D (Curr Rheumatol Rep. 2008 April; 10(2): 110-117).
Symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency
Muscle pain and weakness are generally the first clinical signs of vitamin D deficiency
Risk Factors
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Elderly - Homebound
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Renal or liver disease
- Clothing and/or sunscreen
- Certain medications
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with:
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Cardiovascular heart disease
- Hypertension
- Type 1 Diabetes
- Certain deadly cancers
- J Am Coll Cardiol 2008;52:1949-56; J Nutr. 2005 Nov; 135(11):2739S-48S)
Daily Dosage Recommendations
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Currently the recommendation for daily intake of vitamin D range from 200IU - 400IU, depending on age and gender. However these current recommendations are being studied and will likely be raised to 1,000IU-4,000IU per day for adults.
Sources of Vitamin D
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Sunlight is the most potent source of vitamin D, allowing our bodies to produce 3,000IU per 5-10 minutes of exposure to the arms and legs at mid-day, mid-year. - Foods such as salmon
- Daily vitamin supplements
- Fortified sources such as milk and orange juice
The above information is continuously being studied and revised. We recommend speaking with your primary care physician if you have questions regarding your vitamin D levels or current daily intake.
This information was acquired as part of a Mary Free Bed Grand Rounds presentation given by Norman G. Hord, PHD, MPH, RD; Associate Professor; Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition; February 18, 2019. |
More than the programs ...
At The Pain Center, all of our doctor's and therapists see patients outside of the programs. If you have a new injury, significant stressor, severe pain flare-up or need to adjust your home exercise program - come back to the team that you trust. We're happy to help.
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