Patients frequently ask about the relationship between sun and vitamin D levels. Some have claimed regular sun exposure and vitamin D supplementation are necessary to maintain healthy vitamin D levels and to prevent cancer and other diseases. However, a recent, major report from the Institute of Medicine (IOM) found that the vast majority of Americans have adequate vitamin D intake.
The IOM report reviewed nearly 1,000 studies and found no evidence of a link between vitamin D deficiency and cancer, heart disease, or diabetes. The IOM report also advises against increased sun exposure and concludes that the risk of skin cancer outweighs any potential need to enhance vitamin D production. The IOM panel recommends vitamin D intake of 600 IU daily for children and adults under age 70, and 800 IU daily for those 70 and older.
For more information, please see the IOM report by visiting www.iom.edu.