“If one regularly avoids sunlight exposure, research indicates a necessity to supplement with at least 5,000 units (IU) of vitamin D daily. To obtain this amount from milk one would need to consume 50 glasses. With a multi-vitamin more than 10 tablets would be necessary. Neither is advisable.” — The independent Vitamin D Council from its web site, www.VitaminDcouncil.org. According to the Council, the skin produces approximately 20,000 IU vitamin D in response 20–30 minutes summer sun exposure — 200 times more than an 8-ounce glass of milk.

According to The Vitamin D Council, there are three ways for adults to insure adequate levels of vitamin D:

1. Regularly receive midday sun exposure in the late spring, summer, and early fall, exposing as much of the skin as possible.
2. Regularly use a sun bed (avoiding sunburn) during the colder months.
3. Take 5,000 IU per day for three months, then obtain a 25-hydroxyvitamin D test.

The Vitamin D Council suggests you adjust your dosage so that blood levels are between 50–80 ng/mL (or 125–200 nM/L) year-round. For more information, visit www.VitaminDcouncil.org.