Side-by-side analysis
Vitamin D3 vs Vitamin D2
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) and Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) are the two primary forms of Vitamin D. However, their biological source and absorption longevity differ substantially.
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) | Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Lanolin (sheep wool), Lichen (vegan) | UV-irradiated yeast and mushrooms |
| Serum Retention | Long-lasting (weeks) | Short-lived (days) |
| Biological Potency | Superior (High affinity to binding proteins) | Inferior |
| Preferred By MDs | Yes (Preferred in clinical guidelines) | Rarely (Only prescribed in legacy high-dose D2 packets) |
Key Benefits
Vitamin D3
- +Vitamin D3 binds tightly to vitamin D receptors and transport proteins in human blood.
- +Vitamin D2 is cleared by the liver and kidneys much faster, requiring more frequent dosing.
Our Recommendation
Always choose Vitamin D3. It is the natural hormone form synthesized by the body and is clinically proven to keep systemic vitamin D levels elevated much longer than D2.