Vitamin D supplements can be an extremely effective tool for anyone looking to optimise their vitamin D levels.
Especially when modern lifestyles and limited access to vitamin D rich foods, hurt our chances of meeting daily recommended guidelines for vitamin D, most optimal for long term health.
But before rushing out to buy a vitamin D supplement ... it's important to understand which form of vitamin D is most optimal for raising your vitamin D levels.
VITAMIN D3 & VITAMIN D2
Vitamin D supplements come in two forms:
Vitamin D3, called colecalciferol.
And vitamin D2, ergocalciferol.
Vitamin D3 supplements provide a similar benefit as if we were getting vitamin D naturally through the sun ... which is the best source of vitamin D.
Whereas vitamin D2 supplements provide a similar benefit from foods that are rich in vitamin D2, most often found in mushrooms.
Both vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 will help support baseline vitamin D levels in the body.
But the science shows vitamin D3 supplements are more effective at raising vitamin D levels than vitamin D2.
So when you're comparing different types of vitamin D supplements, always look to the form vitamin D3.
VITAMIN D3 FROM SHEEP'S WOOL OR LICHEN
So now that you understand vitamin D3 is the preferred form of supplement to raise vitamin D levels.
The second consideration is whether you'd prefer a plant based form of vitamin D3 which you can get form lichen ... a small, unique plant species that shares similar characteristics to algae and fungus.
Or the more traditional forms of vitamin D supplements made from lanolin ... an oil from sheep's wool & a byproduct of sheep’s wool farming.
At Honour Health, our preference is vitamin D3 supplements from lichen as they provide a completely plant based form of vitamin D3, without the need for animal inputs.
And, because lanolin is a byproduct of sheep's wool, which sheep’s wool is often treated with different insecticides and pesticides to control pests.
There's always a risk of contamination, especially if the sheep aren't treated and farmed in a way that follows organic practices.
So looking to vitamin D3 supplements from lichen will typically have a lower risk of contamination.
FINAL WORD
Hopefully the above has provided a little more insight as to the different types of vitamin D supplements.
And why for anyone looking to optimise their vitamin D levels, through the support of a supplement, that vitamin D3 is going to the preferred option when comparing to vitamin D2.
Thank you for giving us your time to read this blog & most importantly ... for allowing us to support you on your journey to great health.
We're here if you have any questions.
- HONOUR HEALTH
The information provided here is for general informational purposes only & should not be considered as professional medical advice or a substitute for consulting with a healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.