Vitamin D2 vs D3: What is the Difference Between Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3?

You may be aware of the role vitamin D plays in your health, from supporting bone structure to immune function, mood regulation, cognition, and more. But did you know that the specific form of Vitamin D you take influences your results?

Today, we’ll compare and contrast vitamin D3 vs D2 to help you choose your supplement wisely and make the most of this micronutrient. But what is the difference between vitamin D2 and vitamin D3, exactly

Really it comes down to specific benefits and bioavailability. Vitamin D2 is great, but it may not be as easily absorbed as vitamin D3, which is the form you get through natural sunlight. 

If you’re going to invest in your health with a supplement, you might as well take the best form. Our vitamin D3 5000 iu is the most trusted choice online, enhanced with avocado oil to supercharge uptake and help you feel better fast. Get yours risk free today!

What is the Difference Between Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3?

So, what is the difference between vitamin D2 and D3? Let’s look at the role each plays and common sources before we compare and contrast vitamin D2 vs D3 side-by-side.

What is Vitamin D2?

Vitamin D2, also known as ergocalciferol, is the form of vitamin D primarily found in plant-based sources and fortified foods. It’s produced by some mushrooms and yeast when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light.

Vitamin D2 is often added to fortified foods such as milk, orange juice, and cereals to help increase dietary intake of this essential nutrient.

What is Vitamin D3?

On the other end of the vitamin D3 vs D2 spectrum, this form is known as cholecalciferol. It’s naturally produced in the skin when you spend time outside in the sun soaking up the UVB rays.

It’s also found in a variety of animal-based foods like fatty fish, liver, egg yolks, and more. However, the most convenient, consistent way to get vitamin D3 is through a supplement.

This specific form of vitamin D is essential for raising and maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D in the body. We’ll talk more about the vitamin D3 5000 iu benefits in a moment, but let’s look at how these forms of vitamin D are similar first.

How They’re Similar

Both Vitamin D2 and D3 are essential for maintaining healthy levels of calcium and phosphate in the blood, which in turn support your bone health. They both undergo similar processes in the body to become biologically active, too:

1. Both D2 and D3 are first converted in the liver to calcidiol (25-hydroxyvitamin D).
2. Calcidiol is then converted in the kidneys to calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D), the active form of vitamin D that the body can use.

This helps supercharge calcium uptake in the gut for better bone strength and structure. It also ensures your immune system is firing on all cylinders. But, what is the difference between vitamin D2 and D3?

Biological Functions and Differences

Some say that all that matters is you’re getting enough vitamin D in your diet, regardless of source. We disagree. There are staggering differences between vitamin D2 vs vitamin D3, including:

• Potency and Efficacy: Vitamin D3 is more effective than D2 in raising and maintaining serum levels of vitamin D. Studies have shown that D3 is approximately twice as effective as D2 in increasing blood levels of calcidiol. D3 is also more stable and has a longer shelf life compared to D2, which can degrade more quickly when exposed to light and varying temperatures.
• Absorption and Bioavailability: D3 is better absorbed and utilized by the body compared to D2. This higher bioavailability means that D3 can be more effective in smaller doses. Individuals with limited sun exposure or dietary intake of animal products may find D3 supplements more beneficial for achieving optimal vitamin D levels.
• Sources and Production: Vitamin D2 is derived from plant sources and is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Vitamin D3 is primarily found in animal-based foods and produced in the skin through sunlight exposure, making it more naturally occurring in humans.

So, does that mean it’s better to take vitamin D3 over D2, or vice versa? Let’s dig deeper and compare these two forms side by side to leave you with a clear understanding of which is right for you.

Vitamin D2 vs Vitamin D3: Is it Better to Take Vitamin D2 or D3?

While both forms of vitamin D have their place, you only need one in your supplement regimen. Here’s what you should consider before making a purchase.

Bone Health

Both vitamin D2 and D3 contribute to the process of absorbing calcium, thereby supporting bone health. However, vitamin D3 has proven more effective in raising and maintaining adequate blood levels of vitamin D. This means better bone density and a reduced risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

Immune System Support

Vitamin D enhances the pathogen-fighting effects of monocytes and macrophages and decreases inflammation, bolstering your immune system. 

While both forms of vitamin D support immune function, research indicates that Vitamin D3 is more potent and effective in boosting and sustaining immune health.

Other Health Benefits

Beyond bone and immune health, Vitamin D offers a range of other benefits - with each form having an edge over the other in certain cases:

• Cardiovascular Health: Vitamin D3 has been linked to improved cardiovascular outcomes, including lower blood pressure and reduced risk of heart disease. While D2 also supports cardiovascular health, it doesn’t show the same efficacy.
• Mood and Mental Health: Vitamin D3 positively influences mood and mental health by regulating the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin. This can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety more effectively than D2.
• Muscle Function: Adequate vitamin D levels are essential for muscle strength and function. Vitamin D3’s better absorption and bioavailability can provide more consistent support for muscle health.

Absorption and Bioavailability

In case you haven’t started to pick up on the common theme thus far, the main difference between vitamin D2 and D3 comes down to bioavailability. 

Vitamin D3 is more potent and raises blood levels of vitamin D more effectively and for a longer duration compared to D2. This is because the body converts D3 to its active form more efficiently than D2, making it the more effective option for maintaining optimal vitamin D levels. It’s also more stable during storage and less likely to degrade.

Side Effects

Both Vitamin D2 and D3 are generally safe when taken at recommended dosages. However, there are some considerations. 

One is hypercalcemia, where excessive intake of vitamin D can lead to elevated calcium levels in the blood. This could cause nausea, vomiting, weakness, and kidney problems.

The good news is that hypercalcemia is rare, and can be avoided by taking your supplement as directed by the manufacturer. You could also consult a doctor if you’re worried about this, and get tests done to determine whether you’re at risk or not.

Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to vitamin D supplements. Again, consulting with a healthcare provider can help mitigate this risk.

So, Should You Take a Vitamin D3 vs D2 Supplement?

It’s clear that while both vitamin D3 and D2 play similar roles, one is more efficient than the other. That’s vitamin D3. 

Why would you force your body to work harder in converting D2 over to its active form when you could just invest in a high-quality D3 supplement? Put another way, why would you pay for a less bioavailable supplement that essentially costs you more in the long run?

You’re better off choosing vitamin D3 and reaping all the benefits it has to offer today at Smarter Vitamins.

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Wrapping Up Our Comparison of Vitamin D3 vs D2

That concludes our guide to the difference between vitamin D2 and D3. We hope this thorough comparison of vitamin D3 vs D2 has left you with a clear understanding of the nuances of these forms. 

While they both work towards the same outcomes, vitamin D3 is far more efficient given its bioavailability. In this sense, it’s a wiser choice for anyone seeking support for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being.

Learn more about how soon you’ll feel better after taking vitamin D3 in our blog if you want a better idea of what you can expect. But just know this - the sooner you place your order, the sooner you’ll be feeling like a whole new person! 

Don’t deprive yourself any longer. Invest in a proven supplement today and unlock your healthiest, happiest self yet. Shop at Smarter Vitamins now!