Experts recommend higher vitamin D intakes for Nordic countries

A new review from scientists in Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden suggests an increase of recommended intakes of vitamin D and selenium.

A systematic review of nutrient intakes in northern countries showed that the recommended daily vitamin D intake should be increased from 7.5 to 10 micrograms (mcg) per day for people between 2 and 75 years of age (1). For people over 75 years, the recommended level is 20 mcg. The current levels mean that vitamin D recommendations have jumped 50% since 1996. In July 2012, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) raised the upper safe limit (USL) of vitamin D for adults from 50 mcg a day to 100 mcg. The USL for children aged 1–10 went from 25 mcg a day to 50 mcg a day. Recommended intakes for selenium in adults were elevated from 40 to 50 mcg for men and 50 to 60 mcg for women; for pregnant and lactating women it was set at 50 to 55 mcg.

The researchers commented that their publication of the 5th edition of the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations involved three years of work and more than 100 scientists performing systematic reviews on a host of nutri- ents. Once the Nordic Council of Ministers formally approve the recommendations – expected this fall – they will come into effect in Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden – which each gave input.

1. Nordic Council of Ministers. Nordic Nutrition Recommendations – focus on quality and the whole diet. www.norden.org. Published online October 2013.