Is vitamin d same as d3
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Understanding the Differences Between Vitamin D and Vitamin D3
Vitamin D: An Overview
Vitamin D is a crucial prohormone for human health, playing a significant role in calcium and phosphate metabolism, bone health, and immune system regulation. It exists in two primary forms: Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol)2 4. Both forms are converted in the liver to 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), the major circulating form used to assess vitamin D status2.
Vitamin D2 vs. Vitamin D3: Efficacy in Raising Vitamin D Levels
Research has shown that Vitamin D3 is more effective than Vitamin D2 at raising and maintaining adequate levels of 25(OH)D in the blood. A systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that Vitamin D3 is significantly more potent in increasing vitamin D levels compared to Vitamin D21. This was further confirmed by a large randomized controlled trial, which demonstrated that Vitamin D3 increased vitamin D status by 74%-75%, whereas Vitamin D2 only achieved a 33%-34% increase1.
Sources and Metabolism of Vitamin D3
Vitamin D3 is primarily synthesized in the skin through exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation from sunlight, converting 7-dehydrocholesterol to previtamin D3, which then becomes Vitamin D34 6. It can also be obtained from dietary sources, particularly fatty fish, and supplements6. Once in the body, Vitamin D3 undergoes hydroxylation in the liver to form 25-hydroxyvitamin D3, and further hydroxylation in the kidneys to produce the active form, 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D34.
Biological Functions and Health Benefits of Vitamin D3
The active form of Vitamin D3, 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, binds to the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and regulates the expression of numerous genes involved in calcium and phosphate absorption, bone health, and immune function3 4. It also has non-calcemic roles, including modulation of cell growth, neuromuscular and immune function, and inflammation reduction4.
Conclusion
In summary, while both Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3 are important for maintaining vitamin D levels, Vitamin D3 is more effective at raising and sustaining these levels. Vitamin D3, synthesized in the skin and obtained from dietary sources, undergoes metabolic activation to exert its biological effects, which are crucial for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. Understanding these differences is essential for making informed decisions about vitamin D supplementation and health management.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
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