Vitamin D Tests Aren't Needed For Everyone, Federal Panel Says

re-blogged from NPR
November 24, 2014 5:05 PM ET

Nancy Shute

 

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Vitamin D Tests Aren't Needed for Everyone

 

Ethnicity may make a difference in vitamin D levels; African-Americans typically have lower levels, but it's not known if that's deficient or OK.

And then there's the fact that the blood test can be expensive, running $50 to $220. Since vitamin D supplements are cheap, some doctors say it's easier just to tell people to take supplements rather than mess around with a blood test.

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Fewer Americans Need Vitamin D Supplements Under New Guidelines

In 2010, the Institute of Medicine issued a report saying that vitamin D is vital for bone health, but other than that there isn't evidence that low levels of vitamin D cause disease. It recommended that adults up to age 70 get 600 milligrams of D a day, with 800 milligrams for people over 70.

 

People can make vitamin D when exposed to sunshine. But many people in North America never get enough sun to do that

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Always talk with your healthcare provider before taking any Vitamin supplements. 

All the best,  Dr. Nina