Both forms of vitamin D are available as dietary supplements.
It is also naturally present in certain foods, added to others, and available as a dietary supplement.
Experts recommend getting vitamin D through various sources.
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However, once the vitamins enter the bloodstream, they differ significantly in how the body uses them.
This affects their bioequivalence (how equally they act in the body).
Calcidiol is then converted in the kidneys into the most active form of vitamin D, calledcalcitriol.
Comparatively, the breakdown of vitamin D3 produces more calcidiol and, in turn, calcitriol than vitamin D2.
By comparison, calcitriol levels tend to be lower and drop off quickly after a dose of vitamin D2.
However, some studies suggest that their effect on the immune system may differ.
That is not to say that vitamin D2 is inferior to vitamin D3 in every aspect.
Which One Is Better?
Both vitamins D2 and D3 can help bring vitamin D levels within a normal range.
Among other things, it can lead to the loss ofbone mineral densityand the onset ofosteoporosis.
Those who do may have subtle signs that are not immediately noticeable.
Vitamin D deficiency is common worldwide.
Office of Dietary Supplements.Vitamin D fact sheet consumer version.
Office of Dietary Supplements.Vitamin D: fact sheet for health professionals.
2016 Dec 30;95(52):e5353.
2020;74(11):1498-1513. doi:10.1038/s41430-020-0558-y
Sanofi US.Drisdol ergocalciferol, USP (50,000 IU capsule).
University of California Los Angeles.Ask the doctor: how much sunlight do I need for vitamin D?
