0
0
In a significant shift, the US Endocrine Society has released new guidelines advising against routine testing and supplementation of Vitamin D for healthy adults up to the age of 75. This recommendation comes amidst ongoing debates about the necessity and efficacy of widespread Vitamin D testing and supplementation.
Vitamin D, often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin,” exists in two primary forms: D-2 and D-3. It is a crucial micronutrient for bone and teeth development and plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy immune system. Numerous studies have associated Vitamin D deficiency with various health issues, including musculoskeletal, metabolic, cardiovascular, malignant, autoimmune, and infectious diseases. These associations have led to increased public interest in Vitamin D supplementation and testing.
Despite the rising popularity of Vitamin D supplements, the Endocrine Society’s latest guidelines suggest a more conservative approach. The panel recommended against routine 25-hydroxyvitamin D testing for generally healthy individuals without specific medical indications.
“Vitamin D is supplemented by probably just about everyone who deals with health, nutrition, health coaches, and similar who have absolutely no idea what high levels or doses of Vitamin D can do,” said Dr. Phulrenu Chauhan, Section Head of Endocrinology at P. D. Hinduja Hospital. He expressed concern about the unnecessary inclusion of Vitamin D testing in routine laboratory packages.
Dr. Chauhan emphasized that Vitamin D tests should not be performed routinely but only in specific clinical situations. “It is certainly not a screening test,” he stated.
The new guidelines specifically recommend Vitamin D intake for children, pregnant women, seniors over 75, and adults with high-risk pre-diabetes. “Except for these specific conditions, routine measurement of Vitamin D levels is not recommended, as it is costly and supplementation may not lead to positive outcomes in healthy individuals,” said Dr. Anoop Misra, Chairman & Director of Diabetes and Endocrinology at Fortis C-Doc Hospital.
Dr. Misra highlighted the widespread prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency in the Indian population and the importance of targeted supplementation. “In children, it can reduce the incidence of rickets; in the elderly, it can decrease mortality; during pregnancy, it can reduce adverse fetal outcomes; and in those with prediabetes, it can prevent the development of diabetes. It is recommended to be administered under these conditions,” he noted.
These new guidelines aim to curb the unnecessary medical expenses and potential health risks associated with over-supplementation in the general population. The focus is on ensuring that Vitamin D testing and supplementation are reserved for those who will benefit most from it, based on specific health needs and conditions.
