High Dose Vitamin D Can Prevent Falls For Seniors Over 65

Several previous trials have shown vitamin D improves strength and balance amongst those over 65, while others have found no significant effect on falling. So to determine the truth of the matter, an international team of researchers analyzed the results of eight fall prevention trials to assess the efficacy of vitamin D in preventing falls among elderly individuals. The collective results found that the benefit of vitamin D on fall prevention depended entirely on dosage.

Researchers specifically investigated vitamin D2 and vitamin D3. A dose of 700-1000 IU of vitamin D2 reduced falls by 19% and up to 26% with vitamin D3. The effect was most significant within two to five months of starting treatment and extended beyond 1 year. A dose less than 700 IU did not reduce falls.

Researchers advise that to reduce the risk of falling, a daily intake of at least 700-1000 IU of supplemental vitamin D is warranted in all individuals 65 and older. Higher doses may be even more effective and should be examined in future research to optimize the fall prevention benefit associated with vitamin D.

The authors noted that active forms of vitamin D didn’t appear to be more effective than supplemental vitamin D. They warned that active forms of vitamin D cost more than the standard supplemental vitamin D and associated with risks for hypercalcemia – elevated levels of calcium in the blood.