The Scientific Advisory Committee on Vitamin D and health published a consultation document on the 22nd July. It used to be that vitamin D supplements and levels were all based on bone health, rickets, a disease of the bone in infants and osteomalacia, the adult version but now they are saying that other diseases could be affected by low vitamin D levels. Now, when exposure to the sun (that's how we get most of our vitamin D) is limited then 400iu of vitamin D should be taken daily. At the moment in Scotland that is virtually the whole population.

It also used to be thought that vitamin D was not needed to be given to infants until 6 months but now they are recommending supplementing with 400iu from birth. This is important for breast fed babies.

What surprised me a bit from the report was the lower adequate level which they say stands at 25nmol/L. This is the measurement of 25(OH)D in the blood. Most institutions suggest that 50nmol/L should be the cut off ,below which the person is thought to be deficient.

The other recommendation that I think should be challenged is that the dose of 400iu is the same for a baby as an adult. Any other supplement or medication would be altered in terms of the weight and age of the individual.

I have a great interest in vitamin D and hold talks in the pharmacy as well as with community groups. Testing is available in the pharmacy and also kits from our websitewww.newlifehealthcare.co.ukThere is also more information including supplements and a vitamin D e-book to download.

Any questions you have about vitamin D then please e-mail me atadmin@newlifepharmacy.co.uk