Vitamin D Intakes of People Living in Canada: An Assessment Using Disaggregated Population Data from the 2015 Canadian Community Health Survey – Nutrition

BACKGROUND: The dietary reference intakes for vitamin D were set in support of adequate vitamin D status. In Canada, the prevalence of inadequate vitamin D status is 19% based on biomarker data. OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study are to assess the adequacy of total usual intakes (UIs) of vitamin D of people living in Canada and explore sociodemographic correlates. METHODS: Vitamin D intake data from the 2015 Canadian Community Health Survey - Nutrition (n = 19,567, ≥1 y) were used. The prevalence of inadequate UI was defined as the percent below the estimated average requirement (%UL). Intakes (%UL was <3%. Total UI of vitamin D in supplement nonusers and users did not vary widely according to sociodemographic factors. Overall, the top 4 food sources of vitamin D were cow's milk and fortified plant-based beverages (FPBBs) combined, margarine, fish, and eggs. CONCLUSIONS: In Canada, the population prevalence of inadequate vitamin D intake is high, although lower among supplement users. Since the time of this survey, dietary guidance advises vitamin D supplementation for people ≥2 y who do not consume a daily food source of vitamin D. Subsequently, the amount of vitamin D in milks, margarines, and FPBB was increased and its addition to yogurts and kefirs was permitted. These strategies may help people living in Canada to achieve adequate intakes of vitamin D.