New advice suggests daily vitamin D supplements may be needed for bone health

Public Health England has issued new advice indicating that people require levels of vitamin D equivalent to an average daily intake of ten micrograms in order to maintain optimum bone and muscle health.The organisation has advised the government that in order to help people achieve this ideal goal, it could be a good idea to encourage them to take more vitamin D supplements, particularly during the autumn and winter months.The need for more vitamin D This advice was based on new recommendations of the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition following a recent review of the evidence on vitamin D and health.Vitamin D is made in the skin by the action of sunlight, with this being the main source of the vitamin for most people. Although the majority of the population get enough vitamin D through sunlight on the skin and a healthy, balanced diet during spring and summer, this is not always the case for those with little or no sun exposure, such as those in care homes or people who always cover their skin outside.During autumn and winter, meanwhile, it is difficult for anyone to meet the ten microgram recommendation simply by consuming foods naturally containing or fortified with vitamin D, meaning daily supplements may be needed in these cases. Ethnic minority groups with dark skin were also advised to make use of supplements all year round, as they may not get enough vitamin D from sunlight even in the summer.Getting the recommended amount In addition to the groups outlined a...
Source: Arthritis Research UK - Category: Rheumatology Source Type: news