Vitamin D3: also known as cholecalciferol, vitamin D3 is produced when UVB reacts with a compound in the skin called 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC).Vitamin D2: otherwise known as ergocalciferol, vitamin D2 forms when a compound in fungi (such as mushrooms) called ergosterol reacts with ultraviolet-B (UVB) light from the sun ( 7).

Generally speaking, the main differences between vitamin D2 and D3 are their source and how the body processes them. What Are the Differences Between Vitamin D2 and D3? This article examines the breadth of available research to determine how vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 compare for bioavailability and effectiveness. However, some later research suggested that D2 is equally effective at raising vitamin D levels ( 5, 6).ĭespite large amounts of subsequent research, there is often confusion over whether the two are equal or different in terms of their effectiveness. On this note, some early research suggested that vitamin D3 is more effective than vitamin D2. Two main supplementary versions of the vitamin exist: D2 and D3. If we do not get sufficient vitamin D from sunlight or food, then health authorities typically recommend supplementation to meet requirements ( 3, 4). Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that acts as a hormone in the body.įor those who live in colder and darker climates, low vitamin D levels can be surprisingly common ( 1, 2).

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