M.D. A study from New Zealand shows that Vitamin D deficiency is common in older people, particularly those who do not go outside in the winter. These foods provide only half the vitamin D requirement for most North Americans. Since many North Americans restrict high-cholesterol foods, they must depend on sunlight.
Most people can meet half their vitamin D requirement by taking two cups of milk a day.
Strict vegetarians need to eat fortified foods or take 5 to 10 micrograms of vitamin D pills each day. SJ Ley, CC Horwath, JM Stewart. Attention is needed to the high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in our older population. Dr. Mirkin's opinions and the references cited are for information only, and are not intended to diagnose or prescribe. For your specific diagnosis and treatment, consult your doctor or health care provider.