HOW MUCH VITAMIN D DO I NEED?

Many people in the United States don't get the vitamin D they need, especially those with IBD.  Low vitamin D levels are often caused by not enough sun exposure, and not enough fish or dairy in their diets. Those at particular risk:

• Have dark skin
• Live in climates like the northern US states
• Spend more time inside
• Have severe disease
• Have dairy restricted diets

Amount of Vitamin D Healthy People Need

Age                                        Male       Female       Pregnancy   Breastfeeding

0–12 months*                   400 IU      400 IU 

1–13 years                          600 IU      600 IU

14–18 years                       600 IU      600 IU           600 IU           600 IU

19–50 years                       600 IU      600 IU           600 IU           600 IU

51–70 years                       600 IU      600 IU

70 years +                            800 IU      800 IU

IU = international units

For those with IBD, we suggest increasing the daily amount of vitamin D to about 800 IU if you do not spend much time out in the sun. During the winter, that amount could go up to 2500 IU, especially those who have more active IBD. That amount might need to be reduced in those who get kidney stones from increased calcium.

The best way to determine how much you need is to have your Vitamin D levels measured. Then, your doctor can determine how to keep your levels healthy by taking into account your daily sun exposure and diet.