Update on vitamin D

Update on Vitamin D - Position Statement by the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) - 2007 highlights the re-emergence of rickets in population subgroups and the high prevalence of low vitamin D status throughout the UK population. The 1991 UK Dietary Reference Values (DRV) recommended that certain at-risk individuals or groups receive 7-10[mu]g daily. A Reference Nutrient Intake of 10[mu]g/d was set for pregnant and lactating women, for the majority of whom supplementation will be required. However, recent antenatal guidance from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) stated that there was insufficient evidence to evaluate the effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation in pregnancy and that, in the absence of evidence of benefit, vitamin D supplementation should not be offered routinely to pregnant women. Discrepancy between these recommendations has led to a lack of clarity, which requires resolution to ensure clear guidance to health professionals and the general public. This report does not provide a systematic review of the relationship between vitamin D status and health, but instead provides an update on vitamin D status and other related issues. It includes a synopsis of evidence about the relationship between vitamin D status and chronic disease in order to assess the need for full risk assessment. Chapters include: Assessment of Vitamin D Status; Dietary Reference Values for the UK; Safe Upper Intake Levels for Vitamin D; Sources of Vitamin D; Dietary Intakes and Vitamin D Status in the UK; Factors Affecting the Cutaneous Synthesis of Vitamin D; Other Factors Affecting Vitamin D Status; Vitamin D Deficiency; and Vitamin D and Chronic Disease