Vitamin D2

Vitamin D2, also known as ergocalciferol, is one of the two major types of vitamin D. There are actually four types of vitamin D, and vitamin D2 and D3 are the two most common and predominant of the four. There are a few major differences between vitamin D2 & D3, and the most notable is that the sources of the two are different. Vitamin D2 is obtained through plant and fungal sources, while vitamin D3 comes from animal sources and is made within the skin from sunlight. Vitamin D2 or D3 also maintain a different molecular structure, but the two can often be obtained together in fortified food sources or supplements.

Although there aren’t many natural food sources of vitamin D2 or D3, since there are so many that are fortified with it, deficiency isn’t common. However, there are individuals who experience a deficiency of vitamin D2, and this happens more often in obese individuals. There are many ways in which vitamin D2 can be given in individuals who have a deficiency, and in some cases, large amounts of the vitamin will be given to combat a deficiency. Vitamin D2 at 50,000 JU or more is not uncommon when fighting a deficiency of this crucial vitamin.

There are many vitamin D2 studies that are ongoing constantly, and an example is the vitamin D2 from sweet potatoes studies. There are other types as well, to see not only where vitamin D2 comes from, but also how it can help in certain illnesses. For example, vitamin D2 has been studied in the treatment of cancer patients and other illnesses. It has been shown that ergocalciferol can better the health situation of patients who are also being treated in other manners. Not all doctors will use this natural way of helping to treat or cure diseases, but a patient can learn about it on their own by looking up ergocalciferol online. There is much information about not only vitamin D2, but also vitamin D3 and the lesser known D vitamins. This type of proactive action can help a patient have a say in their treatment options and can potentially lead to better health.

Typically, vitamin D2 toxicity levels are low, because the addition of this vitamin in fortified foods is tightly regulated. Even when supplements are taken, it is rather uncommon for a healthy adult to overdose on vitamin D2. If an overdose does occur, it is often attributed to an error in manufacturing.