No evidence linking vitamin D to most chronic diseases

Most North Americans get enough calcium and vitamin D through their diets, according to a comprehensive report containing updated dietary reference intakes (DRIs), released Tuesday by the Institute of Medicine (IOM). The statement also concludes that there is "insufficient evidence" to suggest that low levels of either nutrient could be associated with a range of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity, although the authors underscored the importance of calcium and vitamin D in maintaining bone health.

Dr Catharine Ross (Pennsylvania State University, University Park) chaired a committee of 14 experts appointed to assess present data of health outcomes associated with calcium and vitamin-D intake.

"We could not get solid evidence that consuming more of either nutrient would protect the public from chronic disease ranging from cancer to diabetes to improved immune function," said Ross during a press conference about the new report. "On the other hand, regarding bone health, the amount of proof that has been accumulating is really quite impressive."

The group reviewed more than a thousand studies looking at the link between vitamin D and a wide range of chronic diseases.