Vitamin D study outlines impact of supplements in seniors
Published on January 3, 2017 by Life Science Daily News Desk
A recent clinical trial produced data that contributes to an understanding of the optimal dose of vitamin D for seniors.
In a study of individuals with an average age of 70, participants were given 2000 or 4000 UI/d of vitamin D3 or a placebo for a year. The average vitamin D level of patients upon entering the study was 20 ng/mL. After one year, the average level of participants taking 2000 UI/d had climbed to 42 ng/mL, while those taking 4000 IU/d reached 55 ng/mL.
Previous studies suggested that vitamin D levels in excess of 50 ng/mL could produce harmful effects, such as hypercalcaemia (high blood calcium level) or kidney stones. The present trial, however, found no adverse effects among participants.
Limitations of the trial included the relatively small number of participants in this trial – only 306 individuals participated – and the baseline vitamin D levels of the patients. While there were a few participants that suffered osteoporotic fractures, it was difficult to obtain sufficient data to clearly demonstrate the effects of vitamin D on fracture prevention.
Future studies contributing helpful data will ideally extend over a longer period of time, include greater numbers of participants, and consistently record baseline vitamin D levels.
https://lifesciencedaily.com/stories/19738-vitamin-d-study-outlines-impact-supplements-seniors/
Comment: In Dr. Eisenstein's practice he wanted everyone to have a vitamin D level above 70ng/ml for optimal health.
In a study of individuals with an average age of 70, participants were given 2000 or 4000 UI/d of vitamin D3 or a placebo for a year. The average vitamin D level of patients upon entering the study was 20 ng/mL. After one year, the average level of participants taking 2000 UI/d had climbed to 42 ng/mL, while those taking 4000 IU/d reached 55 ng/mL.
Previous studies suggested that vitamin D levels in excess of 50 ng/mL could produce harmful effects, such as hypercalcaemia (high blood calcium level) or kidney stones. The present trial, however, found no adverse effects among participants.
Limitations of the trial included the relatively small number of participants in this trial – only 306 individuals participated – and the baseline vitamin D levels of the patients. While there were a few participants that suffered osteoporotic fractures, it was difficult to obtain sufficient data to clearly demonstrate the effects of vitamin D on fracture prevention.
Future studies contributing helpful data will ideally extend over a longer period of time, include greater numbers of participants, and consistently record baseline vitamin D levels.
https://lifesciencedaily.com/stories/19738-vitamin-d-study-outlines-impact-supplements-seniors/
Comment: In Dr. Eisenstein's practice he wanted everyone to have a vitamin D level above 70ng/ml for optimal health.
