Vitamin D: Separating Fact from Fiction in Disease Prevention
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CITY — May 24,2024 —
The role of vitamin D in disease prevention sparks considerable debate. Experts evaluate widespread claims of numerous health benefits versus the scientific evidence. Endocrine and metabolism specialists, like Tsai Ming-yeol, are leading a critical re-evaluation of the vitamin’s effects, particularly the benefits of supplementation. Further examination of definitive research will confirm expert evaluations.
Vitamin D: Separating Fact from Fiction in Disease Prevention
From claims of preventing cancer too promises of boosting cardiovascular health, vitamin D has been touted as a cure-all.
However, recent research suggests a more nuanced understanding of its benefits is needed.
Endocrine and metabolism specialist Tsai Ming-yeol noted that a study published in the Journal of the American Medical association in April 2025 indicates that vitamin D supplementation may only benefit specific groups in preventing certain diseases.
The Claims vs. The Evidence
Advertisements often portray vitamin D as a worldwide health booster.
But are these claims supported by scientific evidence?
Cai Mingjie addressed this on Facebook, questioning whether the widespread recommendations are based on solid medical proof or simply an IQ tax.
Who May benefit from Vitamin D Supplements?
According to the latest research, specific populations may experience benefits from vitamin D supplementation:
-
Children aged 1-18:
Vitamin D can prevent nutritional rickets and reduce the risk of respiratory infections like pneumonia.
Clinical trials used an average daily dose of 1,200 IU.
(Conditional proposal; low level of evidence) [2] -
Adults aged 75 or older:
Supplementation may reduce the risk of death.the average daily dose in clinical trials was 900 IU. -
Pregnant women:
Vitamin D may reduce the risk of preeclampsia, intrauterine death, premature birth, births of less than gestational age, and neonatal death.The average daily dose in clinical trials was 2,500 IU.
(Conditional recommendation; medium level of evidence) -
Adults with prediabetes:
Vitamin D supplementation has the potential to lower the risk of developing diabetes.
The average daily dose in clinical trials was 3,500 IU.
(Conditional recommendation; medium level of evidence)
When is Vitamin D Supplementation Not Recommended?
Routine examination of serum 25(OH)D is not recommended for healthy children and adults.
(Conditional recommendations; very low evidence level).
For healthy individuals, the recommended daily intake of vitamin D is 600 IU for those aged 1-70 years and 800 IU for those aged 70-74 years.
This can be obtained through food, fortified foods, vitamins, or oral supplements.
The Bottom line
Cai Mingjie emphasized that the current understanding focuses on vitamin D preventing diseases.
While vitamin D has therapeutic effects on some bone-related conditions, its ability to prevent cancer, dementia, or aid in weight loss lacks sufficient evidence and requires further research. [1], [3]
“while much work is needed to understand why vitamin D deficiency is associated with CVD, our study adds to the growing body of evidence that daily or monthly supplementation with vitamin D does not prevent CVD events or reduce markers of subclinical cardiac injury or strain.”
Stephen P.juraschek, corresponding and senior author
It’s important to note that emerging research highlights vitamin D’s critical role in childhood growth, bone advancement, and gut health [2].
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FAQ
- Who should consider taking vitamin D supplements?
- Children aged 1-18, adults 75 or older, pregnant women, and adults with prediabetes may benefit.
- What is the recommended daily intake of vitamin D for healthy adults?
- 600 IU for adults aged 1-70 years; 800 IU for adults aged 70-74 years.
- Can vitamin D prevent cancer or dementia?
- Current evidence is insufficient to support these claims.
- Is routine vitamin D testing recommended for everyone?
- No, it is generally not recommended for healthy children and adults.
