A Review on Vitamin D Deficiency and Related Disorders: What is the Right Serum Vitamin D Level?

J Assoc Physicians India. 2023 May;71(5):11-12. doi: 10.5005/japi-11001-0240.

Abstract

To maintain a healthy skeleton, vitamin D is crucial for phosphate as well as calcium uptake. It is of great significance for maintaining the various adaptive and innate immune response components. To reduce the development of various immune-related disorders, such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), numerous studies evaluating the optimal threshold levels for serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D]. It is documented in various evidence to increase the serum 25(OH)D intake from the current mindset of 30-50 ng/mL to attain the best overall vitamin D benefits. These values are in line with the results of various research showing that increased vitamin D intake is linked to a decreased risk of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, it becomes vital to understand the "right" vitamin D levels to avoid deficiency along with its related disorders. In contrast to 30 ng/mL, this review emphasizes the significance of increasing vitamin D levels to 50 ng/mL to obtain several physiological benefits. An individual needs at least 60000 IU for 12 weeks to maintain serum vitamin D levels above 30 ng/mL. The article will interest physicians who desire to profit fully from vitamin D's influence on clinical practice.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19*
  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / etiology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Vitamin D
  • Vitamin D Deficiency* / complications
  • Vitamins

Substances

  • Vitamin D
  • Vitamins