Main Differences Between Vitamin D and D3
The main difference between vitamin D and D3 is that vitamin D is synthesized in the skin from cholesterol, while D3 is the natural form of vitamin D that is produced by the body from sunlight. Vitamin D is also available in supplement form, while D3 is not.
Vitamin D is a group of fat-soluble secosteroids responsible for increasing intestinal absorption of calcium, magnesium, and phosphate, and many other biological effects. In humans, the most important compounds in this group are vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) and vitamin D2 .
The major natural source of the vitamin is synthesis of cholecalciferol in the lower layers of epidermis of the skin through a chemical reaction that is dependent on sun exposure (specifically UVB radiation).
There are two main types of vitamin D: vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). While both types of vitamin D are essential for human health, there are some key differences between them.
One of the key differences between vitamin D2 and D3 is that vitamin D3 is more effective at increasing blood levels of vitamin D. This is because vitamin D3 is better absorbed by the body than vitamin D2.
Cholecalciferol, also known as vitamin D3 and colecalciferol, is a type of vitamin D that is made by the skin when exposed to sunlight; it is found in some foods and can be taken as a dietary supplement.
Another key difference between vitamin D2 and D3 is that vitamin D3 is produced by the body when sunlight hits the skin. Vitamin D2 is not produced in this way, and is instead made by plants.
Finally, vitamin D3 has been shown to be more effective than vitamin D2 at maintaining bone health. This is because vitamin D3 is better absorbed by the body and is more effective at increasing the absorption of calcium and phosphorus.
