Difference Between Vitamin D And D3 And D2
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in keeping our bones healthy. This vitamin is produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. However, due to various reasons, many people are deficient in vitamin D. In such cases, doctors recommend vitamin D supplements to fulfil the body's requirement of this nutrient.
Vitamin D2
Vitamin D2 is also known as ergocalciferol. This type of vitamin D is derived from plants and fungi. It is commonly found in fortified foods such as milk and cereals. Vitamin D2 is also available in supplement form. However, it is not as effective as vitamin D3 in raising the body's vitamin D levels.
Vitamin D3
Vitamin D3 is also known as cholecalciferol. This type of vitamin D is derived from animal sources such as fish, egg yolks, and liver. Vitamin D3 is more effective in raising the body's vitamin D levels than vitamin D2. It is also the type of vitamin D that the body produces when the skin is exposed to sunlight.
Difference Between Vitamin D2 and D3
The main difference between vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 is their source. Vitamin D2 is derived from plants, while vitamin D3 is derived from animal sources. Vitamin D3 is more effective in raising the body's vitamin D levels than vitamin D2. Therefore, many doctors recommend vitamin D3 supplements over vitamin D2 supplements.
Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency is a common problem, especially in areas where there is limited exposure to sunlight. Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency include bone pain, muscle weakness, and fatigue. Severe vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults.
Vitamin D Supplements
Vitamin D supplements are available in the market in the form of capsules, tablets, and drops. Vitamin D3 supplements are more effective in raising the body's vitamin D levels than vitamin D2 supplements. However, it is important to consult a doctor before taking any vitamin D supplements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in keeping our bones healthy. Vitamin D2 is derived from plants, while vitamin D3 is derived from animal sources. Vitamin D3 is more effective in raising the body's vitamin D levels than vitamin D2. Therefore, many doctors recommend vitamin D3 supplements over vitamin D2 supplements. However, it is important to consult a doctor before taking any vitamin D supplements.