General Dosage
1,000-4,000 IU (25-100 mcg) daily with a fat-containing meal
Maximum dose: 4,000 IU/day (NIH Upper Tolerable Intake Level); up to 10,000 IU short-term under medical supervision
Vitamin D3 Dosage Guide
SC
DJP
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer
Dosage Recommendations
General recommendation: 1,000-4,000 IU (25-100 mcg) daily with a fat-containing meal
Timing: With the largest meal of the day for optimal absorption • Take with food for best absorption.
Dosage by Condition
| Condition | Recommended Dose | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Bone health | 1,000-2,000 IU daily with calcium | Strong |
| Immune support | 1,000-4,000 IU daily | Strong |
| Depression | 2,000-4,000 IU daily | Moderate |
| Deficiency correction | 5,000-10,000 IU daily for 8 weeks, then maintenance | Strong |
Upper limit: 4,000 IU/day (NIH Upper Tolerable Intake Level); up to 10,000 IU short-term under medical supervision
Timing & Absorption
With the largest meal of the day for optimal absorption
Best taken with food for optimal absorption.
References
- Martineau AR, Jolliffe DA, Hooper RL, et al. (2017). Vitamin D supplementation to prevent acute respiratory tract infections: systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data. BMJ. DOI PubMed
- Manson JE, Cook NR, Lee IM, et al. (2019). Vitamin D Supplements and Prevention of Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease. New England Journal of Medicine. DOI PubMed
- Anglin RE, Samaan Z, Walter SD, McDonald SD (2013). Vitamin D deficiency and depression in adults: systematic review and meta-analysis. British Journal of Psychiatry. DOI PubMed
- Tripkovic L, Lambert H, Hart K, et al. (2012). Comparison of vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 supplementation in raising serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D status: a systematic review and meta-analysis. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. DOI PubMed