The Difference Between Vitamin D And Vitamin D3
Vitamins play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy body. They are essential nutrients that our body needs to function properly. One of the most important vitamins is Vitamin D, which is responsible for maintaining strong bones and teeth, regulating insulin levels, and supporting the immune system. However, there is often confusion between Vitamin D and Vitamin D3. In this article, we will look at the differences between Vitamin D and Vitamin D3.
What is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is naturally present in very few foods. It is produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D can also be obtained from supplements and fortified foods. There are two forms of Vitamin D: Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3. Vitamin D2 is derived from plant sources, while Vitamin D3 is derived from animal sources.
What is Vitamin D3?
Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, is the most active form of Vitamin D. It is produced in the skin when it is exposed to sunlight and can also be obtained from supplements and fortified foods. Vitamin D3 is the form of Vitamin D that is most commonly used in supplements and is the preferred form for raising and maintaining Vitamin D levels in the body.
What are the Differences between Vitamin D and Vitamin D3?
The main difference between Vitamin D and Vitamin D3 is their origin. Vitamin D can be obtained from both plant and animal sources, while Vitamin D3 is only obtained from animal sources. Another difference is their potency. Vitamin D3 is the more potent form of Vitamin D and is more effective in raising and maintaining Vitamin D levels in the body. Vitamin D3 is also the preferred form for supplements and is the form used in most clinical trials.
Which is Better: Vitamin D or Vitamin D3?
When it comes to choosing between Vitamin D and Vitamin D3, it is important to remember that Vitamin D3 is the more potent form and is more effective in raising and maintaining Vitamin D levels in the body. Vitamin D3 is also the preferred form for supplements and is the form used in most clinical trials. However, if you are a vegan, you may prefer to take Vitamin D2, which is derived from plant sources.
Conclusion
Vitamin D and Vitamin D3 are both important nutrients that play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy body. The main difference between the two is their origin and potency. Vitamin D can be obtained from both plant and animal sources, while Vitamin D3 is only obtained from animal sources. Vitamin D3 is the more potent form of Vitamin D and is more effective in raising and maintaining Vitamin D levels in the body. However, if you are a vegan, you may prefer to take Vitamin D2, which is derived from plant sources.