What is the RDA for vitamin D for children aged 1-18 years?

What is the RDA for vitamin D for children aged 1-18 years?

• A. 400 IU/day
• B. 600 IU/day
• C. 800 IU/day
• D. 1000 IU/day

Answer: (B)

Vitamin D is needed for calcium absorption and bone mineralization, especially during growth. The amount designed to meet the needs of nearly all healthy children aged 1–18 years is 600 IU per day (about 15 mcg). This level accounts for ongoing bone development and typical sun exposure and diet, making it the standard recommendation for this age range. The other options don’t fit the established guideline for healthy kids 1–18 years: 400 IU is the amount for infants, while 800 or 1000 IU/day are higher than the standard RDA and are more commonly considered in specific situations like deficiency or limited sun exposure. For many children, aiming for around 600 IU daily helps maintain adequate vitamin D status and supports normal bone health.

Vitamin D is needed for calcium absorption and bone mineralization, especially during growth. The amount designed to meet the needs of nearly all healthy children aged 1–18 years is 600 IU per day (about 15 mcg). This level accounts for ongoing bone development and typical sun exposure and diet, making it the standard recommendation for this age range. The other options don’t fit the established guideline for healthy kids 1–18 years: 400 IU is the amount for infants, while 800 or 1000 IU/day are higher than the standard RDA and are more commonly considered in specific situations like deficiency or limited sun exposure. For many children, aiming for around 600 IU daily helps maintain adequate vitamin D status and supports normal bone health.