Vitamin D Megadoses Beneficial and Safe for Elderly

[Hum]

High doses of vitamin D are safe for older people, according to new research that challenges the conclusions past studies that have suggested mega-doses of the vitamin pose a risk.
 
The findings, published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, are based on an analysis of 236 nursing home residents given 20,000 IUs of vitamin D per week for a year, MedPage Today reports.
 
Lead researcher Timothy Green, of the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, and colleagues found that patients who took high-dose vitamin D for at least six months were able to boost their levels to appropriate concentrations without suffering ill effects.
 
They concluded giving high-dose vitamin D to nursing home patients is "feasible and safe and eliminates vitamin D insufficiency."
 
Seniors in assisted living are at risk of having low vitamin D levels because of reduced exposure to sunlight, and limited intake from food sources. Some studies have shown that giving vitamin D can reduce the risk of fractures and falls.
 
The American Geriatrics Society recommends 4,000 IU per day of vitamin D for older patients, but the new research suggests higher levels may offer benefits without raising risks.

source

[tiagosilva29]

I don't find that to be a "megadose". It's below the recommended daily dose.

[xrobwx71]

I don't find that to be a "megadose". It's below the recommended daily dose.

It depends on what its prescribed for. I take 300,000 IU once a week. 

• Vitamin D: 1 IU is the biological equivalent of 0.025 mcg cholecalciferol or ergocalciferol

http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/vitamin-d/dosing/hrb-20060400

 

http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/recommended-daily-vitamin/

[Hum]

I drink so much milk, I qualify as a cow.