Vitamin D3 is a form of vitamin D that helps the body absorb calcium and other minerals which are important for healthy bones, immune function, and more.
It’s also a popular dietary supplement and a staple in the drugstore vitamin aisle — which may feel overwhelming at times between all the ABCs and 123s. What is vitamin D3 exactly and how does it differ from vitamin D? Who should be taking a supplement?
We spoke to experts to get the DL on vitamin D3. Here’s what to know about vitamin D3 benefits, sources, deficiencies, side effects and more.
What is vitamin D3?
Vitamin D (calciferol) is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in many bodily functions, including maintaining bone health, supporting immune function and more, Heather Hodson, clinical nutritionist at the Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease at NYU Langone Health, tells TODAY.com.
There are two main forms, vitamin D3 and vitamin D2.
Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, is a form of vitamin D that is synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight, says Hodson. “It can also be consumed through dietary sources like fish and supplements,” Hodson adds.
Once Vitamin D3 is synthesized in the skin or ingested, it gets converted to calcidiol n the liver, which is eventually converted to the active form of Vitamin D, calcitriol, says Hodson.
Vitamin D2, also known as ergocalciferol or “pre-vitamin D,” is typically human-made and added to foods, per the National Institutes of Health.
Vitamin D3 benefits
- Supports bone health
- Strengthens the immune system
- Promotes heart and brain health
- Reduces inflammation
Vitamin D3 plays an important role in supporting and maintaining healthy bones, says Hodson. It does so by regulating calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood, and promoting the absorption of these minerals by the gut.
It is also essential for bone growth and remodeling, per the NIH. Vitamin D3 can help prevent bone disorders, such as osteoporosis, and bone loss.
“It really…
Read the full article here
