Typical dose
400-2000 IU (10-50 mcg) daily for general mainte...
Oral
Oral safety: very low
About this supplement
Vitamin D3 powder is a micronutrient supplement form of cholecalciferol, typically produced as a fine, free-flowing powder stabilized on a carrier substance (often maltodextrin, acacia gum, or silica). This form is designed for oral supplementation and is the most bioavailable form of vitamin D for humans. Vitamin D3 is a fat-soluble prohormone that is synthesized in the skin upon exposure to UVB sunlight and can also be obtained from animal-based dietary sources. In supplement form, the powder allows for precise dosing in capsules, tablets, and powdered blends. It plays a crucial role in calcium and phosphorus homeostasis, bone mineralization, immune modulation, and cellular functions throughout the body.
How much to take
- Typical amount
- 400-2000 IU (10-50 mcg) daily for general maintenance; higher doses (e.g., 2000-5000 IU daily) may be used for deficiency correction under medical guidance.
- Suggested range
- 400 IU - 4000 IU daily (10 mcg - 100 mcg 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 (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...
Technical details â–¼
Chemical ID (CAS)
67-97-0
Formula
C27H44O
Physical properties
Typically appears as a white to off-white fine crystalline powder. It is insoluble in water, soluble in fats, oils, and organic solvents like ethanol and acetone. The powder form is hygroscopic and requires protection from light, heat, and oxygen to prevent degradation. Often microencapsulated or adsorbed onto a carrier for stability and flowability.
How it’s made
Commercial Vitamin D3 powder is primarily produced synthetically via the irradiation of 7-dehydrocholesterol (derived from lanolin from sheep's wool) with ultraviolet light, mimicking the natural synthesis in skin. The resulting cholecalciferol is then purified, crystallized, and standardized. For powder supplements, the pure cholecalciferol is typically spray-dried or blended with a dry carrier (e.g., maltodextrin, gum acacia, starch) and antioxidants (e.g., tocopherols) to create a stable, homogeneous powder.