Over 70% of Canadians are vitamin D deficient, proving that it is difficult to get enough vitamin D from direct sun exposure and food alone. A reliable and consistent source of vitamin D (often through supplementation) is necessary to prevent risk of deficiency. Optimal vitamin D levels are essential for health throughout all ages and stages of life.
Vitamin D requirements* change throughout life and according to risk factors:
• Infants (up to 1 year): 400 IU daily (upper limit 1000 – 1500 IU)
• Children (1 to 9 years): 600 IU daily (upper limit 2500 – 3000 IU)
• Pregnancy and lactation: 600 IU daily (upper limit 4000 IU)
• Adults: 800 IU daily (upper limit 4000 IU)
*Health Canada (2010). Vitamin D and calcium: Updated dietary reference intakes. Available online:
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/nutrition/vitamin/vita-d-eng.php