Optimal Serum 25(OH)D Level and Vitamin D Intake in Young Korean Women

Abstract

Vitamin D status is essential for preventing bone disease. Young Korean women have the highest vitamin D deficiency prevalence compared with other demographic groups. This study aimed to establish the optimal vitamin D intake level for maintaining an adequate serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) level by season in young Korean women (mean age: 23.1 years). Each participant (wintertime, n = 101; summertime, n = 117) completed a lifestyle survey, dietary record, bone mineral density, and biochemical tests. Seasonal factors impacting 25(OH)D were identified, vitamin D intake for sufficient 25(OH)D levels was calculated, and the relationship between 25(OH)D and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) was analyzed. During summertime, 25(OH)D levels were higher than in wintertime (17.9 vs. 15.0 ng/mL). A 1 µg/1000 kcal increase in vitamin D intake increased 25(OH)D levels by 0.170 ng/mL in wintertime and 0.149 ng/mL in summertime. iPTH levels reached a theoretical plateau corresponding to an 18.4 ng/mL 25(OH)D level. The vitamin D intake threshold for maintaining 25(OH)D levels at ≥20 and ≥18.4 ng/mL was ≥10.97 μg/day. For a sufficient level of 25(OH)D in young Korean women, increasing summertime UV irradiation time and increasing vitamin D supplements and vitamin D-containing foods throughout the year is beneficial.