OK, you are already confused after reading the title. Who knew there were two types of vitamin D and why does it matter? It does matter because we are learning that vitamin D2 may not have much impact on human health, whereas vitamin D3 can help balance your immune system and strengthen your defenses against viral infections such as Covid-19
Many of us remember vitamin D as the sunshine vitamin. That is true because ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation from sunlight triggers the formation of vitamin D3 from a compound (7-dehydrocholestrol) found in your skin. Vitamin D3 can also be found in fatty fish, fish oil, liver, and egg yolk. The other form of the vitamin, D2, comes mainly from plant sources and foods fortified with the vitamin. In both cases there are few rich food sources. Couple this with the use of sunscreen, working indoors, living in areas with less sunlight, or having darker skin, and many people are lacking enough vitamin D.
To be sure that you get enough, most of us need to take a daily supplement and eat foods fortified with vitamin D. D3 should be your preferred supplement because this form of the vitamin is a key part of the immune system that provides a first line of defense against bacteria and viruses. A healthy vitamin D3 status may help to prevent viruses and bacteria from gaining a foothold in the body. Many experts feel low levels of vitamin D were a contributing factor to the severity of Covid-19 infections.
Bottom line on vitamin D:
It is needed in your body to support your immune system, help absorb calcium, and regulate bone growth.
Sunshine helps your body make vitamin D but we get too little from this source.
Fortified foods can be a good source.Taking a daily supplement of vitamin D3 (1,000 to 2,000 IU which is equal to 25 to 50 micrograms) is wise.
Do not exceed the upper safe intake level of 4,000 IU (100 micrograms) daily. The right amount is necessary but too much can be harmful.
