135 VITAMIN D FORTIFIED MILK—EFFECT ON VITAMIN D STATUS IN OLDER ADULTS

Abstract Background Vitamin D fortified milk is used by some older adults to boost vitamin status. Combined D/calcium supplements often cause gastrointestinal upset which reduces adherence. Consumption of may be a more consistent and reliable way increasing serum 25 hydroxyvitamin [25(OH)D], though studies it’s efficacy in are limited. Methods We examined the status users participants longitudinal study community dwelling Irish aged >60 yrs. Patients taking were excluded independent effects explored multinomial regression models. deficiency was defined as 25(OH)D level < 30 nmol/l. Results 2496 identified: mean age 70.5 ± 7.0 years (range 60–96 yrs) 145 (5.8%) reported using milk. In those who consumed milk, there lower prevalence (17.9 vs 34.5%, P 0.001). also predicted less after adjusting for age, gender, season, BMI physical frailty (OR 0.30. CI 0.19–0.48, Conclusion associated with 70% reduction risk not supplements. Findings support use an effective means improving Fortified contains additional calcium so can augment daily intake.