Older adults need higher repletion doses of vitamin D3 than younger adults in order to combat deficiency
A research by Mike Stone, May 2010
A research done in May 2010 states that the treatment of
vitamin D deficiency in older adults requires higher repletion doses in comparison to younger adults.
The research „ Correcting poor vitamin D status: Do older adults need higher repletion doses of vitamin D3 than younger adults?“ leads to the conclusion that „Doses that reach the total vitamin D saturation period in older adults need to be higher in comparison to young adults. Partially this is due to the base low status of vitamin D in old adults.
Extra intake of vitamin D
In order to ensure optimal levels of vitamin D, the study provides all participants with a daily dose of 125 mcg (5000 IU) in older adults (65 years of age or older) and 50 mcg (2000IU) in younger adults (younger than 65). The dosage is valid when it comes to intake through food, as well as through supplements in the form of tablets. Older adults with an established vitamin D deficiency are those that show levels of 25-hydroxy vitamin D lower than 75 nmol/L.
The research team has established a few methods of treatment that prove to be effective. One is to give high doses of
vitamin D3 to the patients – 1250 mcg a month. This provides the body with high enough amounts of the nutrient so that serum levels reach the base of 75 nmol/L.
According to the study, a promising treatment is one that provides the body with high enough levels of (25(ОН)D).
Since a recent study shows the effects of oversaturation with D2, the research team decided to use vitamin D3 provided in the form of dietary supplements distributed in the form of tablets, as well as injections.
Most dosage methodologies that have been explored, haven't been able to reach the basic amount of 75 nmol/L in young adults (under the age of 65), as well as in old adults (65 years of age or older).
The authors of this study, Susan Whiting of the Pharmacology and food department from Sasquatch University, Canada and Mona Kalvo of the American agency of foods and medications state that there are various differences between the numerous studies. One of the most important differences is what researchers have taken to be a base level of vitamin D. Others include desired end results, duration of the studies, and compatibility of methodologies.
Side effects
Results of all studies state that none of the participants demonstrate any side effects. This goes to show that the chosen doses of vitamin D3 were safe in the timeframe of the studies.
Meanwhile, researchers say that vitamin D deficiency has reached epidemic levels worldwide. In countries with continental climate more than half of the population test with low serum levels of the vitamin. In tropical countries the deficiency of this particular nutrient is growing with alarming rates because of constant lifestyle changes in the past couple of decades.
Scientists also inform that vitamin D has various functions in the body, aside from its main function to aid calcium absorption by bones.
In order to maintain good serum levels of calcium and phosphorus, vitamin D aids in calcium absorption and is of key importance to bone growth and strength. Recent studies show that vitamin D can provide an effective protection against osteoporosis, hypertension, cancer, as well as some autoimmune diseases.
Resources:
Molecular Nutrition and Food Research
Title: Correcting poor vitamin D status: Do older adults need higher repletion doses of vitamin D3 than younger adults?
Authors: S. Whiting, M.Calvo
-200x200.jpg)
