Vitamin D is Lacking in Americans

A second study showed an alarming drop in the blood levels of vitamin D² across America over the past 15 years.  Three fourths of teenagers and adults are lacking in vitamin D. Blood levels of 30 nanograms per milliliter to 40 nanograms per milliliter may be needed for optimum health, while the average American is now at 24.

“Current recommendations for dosage of vitamin D supplements are inadequate to address this growing epidemic of vitamin D insufficiency,” the authors conclude. “Increased intake of vitamin D (1,000 international units per day or more)—particularly during the winter months and at higher latitudes—and judicious sun exposure would improve vitamin D status and likely improve the overall health of the U.S. population”

It is pretty darn obvious that something as simple as increased intake of vitamin D at all ages, especially in the winter months, can have a profound benefit to health. Why is the FDA sitting on its hands with its head in the sand?