Typical dose
1000-5000 IU daily
Oral
Oral safety: very low
About this supplement
Vitamin D (cholecalciferol) is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for maintaining the health of bones and teeth, supporting the immune system, and regulating insulin levels. It is produced in the skin in response to sunlight and can also be obtained from certain foods and supplements. Cholecalciferol is the natural form of vitamin D that is synthesized by the body and is more effective than other forms in raising vitamin D levels in the blood.
How much to take
- Typical amount
- 1000-5000 IU daily
- Suggested range
- 600-4000 IU daily
Potential benefits
Benefits linked to this supplement form:
Things to watch for
Possible side effects linked to this form:
Health goals
Needs and goals this form may help with:
Other forms of Vitamin D
Compare absorption and active amounts with sibling forms:
Calcifediol (25-hydroxyvitamin D3)
Used to rapidly correct vitamin D deficiency; monitor serum calcium and 25(OH)D...
Cholecalciferol (D3)
Essential for calcium absorption and bone health. Often supplemented in regions...
Vitamin D (ergocalciferol)
Vitamin D (mixed)
Vitamin D (unspecified)
Vitamin D2
Vitamin D3
Vitamin D3 in oil (softgel/liquid)
Take with a meal containing fat for optimal absorption. Store in a cool, dark pl...
Vitamin D3 powder (often on carrier)
Essential for bone health and calcium absorption. Often supplemented in regions...
Technical details â–¼
Chemical ID (CAS)
67-97-0
Physical properties
Vitamin D3 is a white to off-white crystalline powder, fat-soluble, and insoluble in water.
How it’s made
Vitamin D3 is produced through the ultraviolet irradiation of 7-dehydrocholesterol, which is derived from lanolin or synthesized from yeast.