Typical dose
600-800 IU daily
Oral
Oral safety: very low
About this supplement
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for maintaining the health of bones and teeth, supporting immune system function, and regulating insulin levels. It is produced by the body in response to sunlight and can also be obtained from certain foods and supplements. Vitamin D exists in several forms, with Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) being the most common. Vitamin D3 is the form that is most effective at raising and maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D in the body.
How much to take
- Typical amount
- 600-800 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 (cholecalciferol)
Vitamin D (ergocalciferol)
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
Physical properties
Vitamin D is typically a white crystalline powder that is fat-soluble. It is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents.
How it’s made
Vitamin D can be synthesized by the body when UV rays from sunlight hit the skin, converting 7-dehydrocholesterol to Vitamin D3. It can also be produced synthetically from yeast or lichen for supplements.