Vitamin D2 And Vitamin D3 Facts - Discover How is Vitamin D Found in Nutritional Supplements

What is the difference between vitamin D2 and vitamin D3? In what forms is vitamin D found in nutritional supplements? Find out the answers here.

Vitamin D is found in nutritional supplements in 2 forms --

1) Vitamin D2 or ergocalciferol

2) Vitamin D3 or cholecalciferol

As Ergocalciferol can be derived from plants, it is generally considered as the vegetarian source of vitamin D.

However, yeast is also very commonly used as a vitamin D 2 source. While some individuals consider this form of microbially produced vitamin as animal based, others do not.

Essential Facts Regarding Vitamin D Supplementation

The two forms of vitamin D namely -

- Calcitriol that originates in animals and

- Ercalcitriol that originates in plants

were not differentiated appropriately in various research studies and in the manufacturing process of vitamin D supplements.

However, more recent research suggests that in the case of vitamin D supplements, ercalcitriol is an inferior form of vitamin D.

If you are taking vitamin D supplements and your preference is towards the plant-based sources of nutrients, it is advisable that you consult with your Doctor regarding vitamin D supplementation.