Vitamin D: increasing supplement use in at-risk groups – guidance PH56 (update)

This guidance has been updated following publication of the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition vitamin D and health report 2016. At-risk age ranges have been updated, as well as reference nutrient intake details and links to the new SACN report

SACN is now recommending:

• a reference nutrient intake (RNI) of 10 micrograms of vitamin D per day, throughout the year, for everyone in the general population aged 4 years and older.

• an RNI of 10 micrograms of vitamin D per day for pregnant and lactating women and population groups at increased risk of vitamin D deficiency.

• a ‘safe intake’ of 8.5 to 10 micrograms per day for all infants from birth to 1 year of age.

• a ‘safe intake’ of 10 micrograms per day for children aged 1 to 4 years.

 

SACN did not take account of sunlight exposure in making recommendations because of the number and complexity of factors that affect skin synthesis of vitamin D.