Vitamin D3
Vitamin D deficiency is a widespread health concern. Nearly one in four people in the United States has moderate to severe vitamin D deficiency. This nutrient plays a key role in bone strength and calcium balance. Low vitamin D levels are also linked to a higher risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and depression.
The body can produce vitamin D3 in the skin when exposed to sunlight. However, many people still rely on food or supplements to meet their daily needs. Supplements usually contain either vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) or vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Scientists continue to debate whether these two forms work equally well.
Recent research suggests that vitamin D3 may offer more benefits than vitamin D2. A new meta-analysis published in Nutrition Reviews indicates that vitamin D2 supplements may actually reduce levels of vitamin D3 in the body.
Vitamins
Understanding Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3
Vitamin D comes in two main forms. Vitamin D2 comes from plant-based sources and fortified foods. Vitamin D3 comes mainly from animal sources and sunlight exposure. Both forms can raise total vitamin D levels, but they may not act in the same way inside the body.
Several studies suggest that vitamin D3 lasts longer in the bloodstream. It may also support immune health and mood more effectively. Researchers have also linked vitamin D3 to lower cancer-related death rates.
What the Meta-Analysis Found
Researchers from the University of Surrey reviewed data from 11 randomised controlled trials. These studies compared people who took vitamin D2 supplements with those who took a placebo or no supplement at all.
Most participants were healthy adults. One study included people with exercise-related muscle injuries. Researchers included this group because the injury was unlikely to affect vitamin D metabolism.
The analysis focused on blood levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3, also known as 25(OH)D3. This form reflects how much active vitamin D3 circulates in the body.
The researchers found a clear pattern. People who took vitamin D2 supplements showed a greater drop in their vitamin D3 levels than those who took no supplements or a placebo. In simple terms, vitamin D2 appeared to lower vitamin D3 in the blood.
Why This Matters for Health
Vitamin D3 plays an important role in immune defence, mood regulation, and overall vitamin D status. Lowering vitamin D3 levels may reduce these benefits.
This finding surprised researchers, as vitamin D2 was previously thought to only increase total vitamin D levels. Instead, the results suggest that vitamin D2 may interfere with vitamin D3 in the body.
Because of this effect, vitamin D3 supplements may be a better choice for most people. They help raise vitamin D levels without reducing the body’s natural vitamin D3 stores.
Implications for Clinical Practice
This study may influence how doctors recommend vitamin D supplements. Clinicians may choose vitamin D3 more often, as it appears more effective at maintaining healthy vitamin D levels.
Doctors may still recommend vitamin D2 for people who avoid animal products, such as vegans. In these cases, careful monitoring becomes important. Long-term or high-dose vitamin D2 use may need closer supervision.
The researchers also noted some limits to the study. The trials varied in design, dose, and duration. Most studies did not track long-term outcomes. Because of this, future research should explore how both forms affect bone health, immune markers, and mental health over time.
Conclusion
Vitamin D deficiency remains a common and serious health issue. While both vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 supplements can raise vitamin D levels, they do not appear to work in the same way.
This new analysis suggests that vitamin D2 supplements may reduce vitamin D3 levels in the body. As a result, vitamin D3 may offer greater overall benefits for most people. Although more long-term research is needed, current evidence supports vitamin D3 as the preferred option for maintaining healthy vitamin D status and supporting overall well-being. PRIME
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