Over the past few months, Pure North S'Energy Foundation (Pure North) has placed advertisements in the Globe and Mail alleging that Health Canada's Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) for vitamin D are incorrect.
Health Canada and the Institute of Medicine (IOM) reviewed and analyzed the information provided by Pure North. We concluded that there is no statistical error in the calculation of our vitamin D standards, and that the authors of the research misinterpreted the meaning of the recommended intake level in the 2011 IOM report.
Health Canada has confidence in the IOM's rigorous process and ability to provide the department with solid scientific advice. We will continue to use the DRI standards as the basis for our nutrition policies and programs. There are no health benefits associated with vitamin D intakes above the level of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), and we advise Canadians to keep their total nutrient intake below the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) to avoid possible adverse effects.
Health Canada continues to recommend that Canadians follow the advice in Canada's Food Guide. The Food Guide recommends that all Canadians over the age of two, including pregnant and lactating women, consume 500mL (two cups) of milk or fortified soy beverages every day to contribute to adequate vitamin D intake. In addition, Health Canada recommends that people over the age of 50 take a daily vitamin D supplement of 400 IU.
