Vitamin D3 vs. Vitamin D2 – What's the Difference?

Known as the "sunshine vitamin," vitamin D is among the few rockstar nutrients that have garnered national attention and research funding within the last 10 years. ^[1] Studies continue to show its effectiveness for promoting normal blood sugar, immune health, and positive mood. ^{[2] [3] [4]} Sales of vitamin D supplements have skyrocketed thanks to the surge of coverage in the media concerning this “miracle” nutrient. Despite this, vitamin D remains elusive to many.

Inadequate intake of vitamin D has become a problematic issue for people all over the world and roughly half suffer from vitamin D deficiency. Perhaps you've looked into supplementing your own vitamin D needs but were stonewalled by the options; specifically, vitamin D3 vs. vitamin D2. The confusion between the two is very common; let's see if we can clear it up.

D2 vs. D3 - Is There a Difference?

There are two forms of vitamin D: vitamin D2 and vitamin D3. Both offer benefits, yet only one is more readily absorbed and utilized by the human body. Let’s examine both.

Vitamin D2

Also known as ergocalciferol, vitamin D2 is produced by some plant life in response to UV radiation. Mushrooms are an example, and many food manufacturers take advantage of this by irradiating mushrooms to increase nutrient content. Some fortified foods will contain vitamin D2 as an inexpensive way to boost nutrient quantity. Dairy-free milk (soy, almond, coconut, etc.), for instance, will sometimes contain vitamin D2 rather than D3, the nutrient that is typically found in most cow dairy.

Vitamin D3

Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, is the most biologically active form of vitamin D found in humans and animals. When sunlight hits the skin, it converts cholesterol into an active form of vitamin D3. This form is involved in a multitude of biological processes and is crucial for promoting calcium absorption in the bones. The discovery of vitamin D3 came through scientists’ efforts to find which component in cod liver oil was responsible for the supplement’s efficacy against rickets. ^[5] Cod liver oil contains a hefty amount of vitamin D3 and was a common supplement given to children before the 20th century to protect against the bone-weakening disease. ^[6]

Vitamin D3: The Ultimate Nutrient for Human Health

The majority of studies that compare, and continue to compare, the effects of vitamin D2 and D3 all resonate with one statement: vitamin D3 is far superior for the human body. Research over the last ten years has produced an overwhelming amount of evidence that vitamin D3 is better absorbed and utilized than D2. ^[7] Simply put, if you want the best form of vitamin D, choose vitamin D3.

Studies have consistently shown that, functionally, vitamin D3 is at least 300% more effective than D2. A review of over 50 vitamin D studies also shows that vitamin D3 offers a noticeable decrease in overall mortality, significantly surpassing D2 in reducing death rates from all causes. ^[8] Vitamin D3 supplementation has also been shown to maintain serum vitamin D levels in the long run, especially in the winter months when sunlight is scarce. ^{[9] [10]}

Sources of Vitamin D

There are only a few sources of vitamin D, and most are [unintentionally] avoided. Let's take a look into the different available sources of vitamin D.

Sunlight

Exposing your skin to sunlight every day can provide an indirect source of vitamin D. While sunlight itself doesn't contain vitamin D, it does promote the synthesis of the vitamin within the body. Healthy sunlight exposure from UVB rays is the ideal and most natural method for ensuring proper vitamin D levels. Unfortunately, most people are cooped inside all day, whether they are at school, home, or work. Even in the summer, many people have a difficult time receiving regular sunlight exposure.

Food

There are many natural and processed foods that contain both synthetic and naturally occurring vitamin D. ^[11] Variety and accessibility to natural vitamin D-rich foods are often the two most common hurdles that bar individuals from receiving enough vitamin D. Vegetarians and vegans usually have a more narrow choice of foods, further restricting the availability of dietary vitamin D.

Fortified foods that contain notable levels of vitamin D include:

• Cow's milk
• Cereal
• Grain products

Whole foods with naturally occurring vitamin D include:

• Fish
• Egg yolk
• Fermented soy
• Pork

Obviously if you're following a vegan diet, these aren't viable options. Also, on the subject of non-organic fortified foods, consumers should know that these items are typically processed and contain a number of different ingredients, additives, preservatives, and pesticides. Many fortified, processed foods may also be genetically modified to some extent. That being said, it is best to choose whole-food varieties, as these will typically provide other nutrients and antioxidants in addition to vitamin D. If you must choose a processed food item for whatever reason, make sure it’s organic.

Supplements

Vitamin D supplements are often the go-to source for many people suffering from vitamin D insufficiency. Supplements are easy to use and remove the guesswork of dosing. Most vitamin D supplements use D3, but check to make sure that it isn’t D2. Vegans and vegetarians should always look to make sure their vitamin D3 supplements are in fact vegan, as many D3 supplements are actually made from animal products (sheep’s wool, to be exact). For a vegan-safe vitamin D3 supplement, try Global Healing’s own Global Healing's Vitamin D3. Extracted from lichen, Global Healing's Vitamin D3 is a premium, all-natural, vegan-friendly vitamin D supplement made right here in the U.S.A.

Bottom Line

After reviewing all of the available research comparing the effectiveness of vitamin D3 and D2, it is fairly obvious that D3 provides the most benefit for the human body. If you want to live life at your highest health potential, the choice is clear – vitamin D3 is the nutrient you need in your daily regime.

†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.

Dr. Edward Group, DC

FOUNDER | HEALER | ADVOCATE

Dr. Group, DC is a healer and alternative health advocate, and an industry leader and innovator in the field of natural health who is dedicated to helping others. He is a registered doctor of chiropractic (DC), a naturopathic practitioner (NP), and proud alum of Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management. Dr. Group, DC is the founder of Global Healing – a mission and vision he has shared through best-selling books and frequent media appearances. He aims to spread his message of positivity, hope, and wellness throughout the world.

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