Vitamin D2 and D3 are not the same. And according to a new study, the best for our body is …
Eugenio Spagnuolo
03 March
The question that often arises when looking for the vitamin D in foods or supplements is whether vitamin D3 or D2 is better. Vitamin D is a pro-hormone that contributes, among other things, to the absorption of calcium in the bones, allowing it to grow and strengthen, the immune system and also has effects on mood. And taking it in the right form guarantees good results. But which one to choose between vitamin D2 and D3? A new study dispels all doubts about it …
Vitamin D2 or Vitamin D3 which is better?
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According to a group of British scientists Vitamin D3 offers greater benefits than Vitamin D2. While researchers believe the effects of vitamin D2 on human health “questionable”, they say vitamin D3 may instead support the immune system and strengthen defenses against viral infections, including COVID-19.
Vitamin D2 vs Vitamin D3: the study
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These conclusions are based on observations made during a long 12-week experiment in which participants took a Vitamin D2 or D3 supplement daily. The findings contradict the widespread belief that vitamin D2 and D3 are equally beneficial: Vitamin D3 proved to be more effective when tested by the facts towards the immune system. “Vitamin D3 stimulates the type I interferon signaling system in the body, a key part of the immune system that provides a first line of defense against bacteria and viruses. Therefore, having the right amount of vitamin D3 can help prevent viruses and bacteria from spreading in the body, “comments lead author of the study, Professor Colin Smith of the University of Surrey.” This suggests that it is important to take a supplement of vitamin D3 or adequately fortified foods, especially in the winter months “.
Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3, where are they found?
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On the market it is increasingly easier to find foods fortified with vitamin D (breakfast cereals, yogurt, milk, etc.), but few foods naturally contain vitamin D. The good news is that our bodies can produce vitamin D3 when sunlight (or artificial ultraviolet UVB light) touches our skin. Not surprisingly, vitamin D3 deficiency is felt above all by those who live in areas that receive little sunlight. “Although we have found that vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 do not have the same effect on gene activity in humans, the lack of impact we have seen when looking at vitamin D2 indicates that a larger study is urgently needed to clarify the differences in their effects. However, the results tell us that vitamin D3 should be the preferred form for fortified foods and supplements“concludes Professor Susan Lanham-New, co-author of the study, head of the Department of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Surrey.
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