If you are in good health, the amount of vitamin D that you require each day will depend on your age. As you get older, you will need to increase the amount of vitamin D that you consume because your body will not be able to create and utilize as much vitamin D as a younger person.
In this section, we will provide you with the general guidelines for daily amounts of vitamin D (RDA) for the different age ranges. You need to bear in mind that your doctor may require you to consume higher levels of vitamin D if you currently have a deficiency or are at risk of bone disorders like osteoporosis. Be sure to meet with your doctor to discuss your needs.
Recommended Vitamin D Amounts (RDA) by Age Range
Please take special note of the upper limits in this list. Vitamin D is a fat soluble and if you get too much you can experience a buildup of toxic levels in your body.
Too much vitamin D can result in serious side effects so be careful not to exceed the recommended daily amounts without consent you’re your doctor.
- 0-6 month infant requires 400 IU each day (do not exceed 1,000 IU per day)
- 6-12 months infant requires 400 IU each day (do not exceed 1,500 IU per day)
- 1-3 year old children require 600 IU each day (do not exceed 2,500 IU per day)
- 4-8 year old children require 600 IU each day (do not exceed 3,000 IU per day)
- Children over 9 years old and adults require 600 IU each day (do not exceed 4,000 IU per day)
- Adults over 70 years old require 800 IU each day (do not exceed 4,000 IU per day)
- Pregnant or lactating women (between 14 and 50 years old) require 600 IU each day (do not exceed 4,000 IU per day)