If you’re wondering why take vitamin D supplements, it’s important to know that for supplementation, vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is generally considered the best form of vitamin D. While both vitamin D2 and D3 can raise vitamin D levels, D3 is often preferred. This is due to its potential to be more effectively absorbed and utilized by the body. Discover the symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency.
Vitamin D Supplements And Why D3 is Often Favored:
Higher absorption and utilization: Studies suggest that D3 can raise blood levels of vitamin D more. Therefore, if you’re considering why vitamin D supplements might be beneficial, the effectiveness of D3 compared to D2 is an important factor. It can also sustain those levels longer than D2.
Natural form: D3 is the form of vitamin D that our skin produces when exposed to sunlight. This may explain why it’s better absorbed and utilized by the body.
More effective at raising blood levels: Vitamin D3 has been shown to be more effective at raising levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (calcifediol) in the blood. Ultimately, why take vitamin D supplements could be answered by understanding that D3 is the primary circulating form contributing to this.
Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency:
The symptoms of vitamin D deficiency can include fatigue, muscle and bone pain, and frequent illness. Other potential symptoms include hair loss, mood changes, depression, and slower wound healing. Severe deficiency in children can lead to rickets, while in adults, it can contribute to osteomalacia and osteoporosis. For these reasons, why take vitamin D supplements could be a question worth exploring.
Here’s a more detailed look at some of the common symptoms:
Fatigue and Low Energy: A common complaint among people with vitamin D deficiency is feeling tired and lacking energy.
Bone and Muscle Pain: Aching bones and muscles are a hallmark of vitamin D deficiency. It often affects the lower back, hips, and thighs.
Muscle Weakness: Muscle weakness can make it difficult to climb stairs or perform daily activities. It may be accompanied by a waddling gait.
Frequent Illness: Vitamin D plays a role in the immune system, so deficiency can increase susceptibility to colds and other infections.
Mood Changes and Depression: Low vitamin D levels have been linked to increased symptoms of depression and anxiety. Thus, making supplements a consideration could be beneficial.
Hair Loss: While not always a direct cause, vitamin D deficiency can contribute to hair loss or thinning.
Slower Wound Healing: Vitamin D is important for the healing process. Therefore, a deficiency can prolong the time it takes for wounds to heal.
Other Potential Symptoms: Some individuals may experience nausea, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping due to lower vitamin D levels.
In Summary:
Considering why to take vitamin D supplements, while both D2 and D3 can help with vitamin D deficiencies, D3 is often recommended for supplementation. This is due to its potential for better absorption, utilization, and effectiveness. Additionally, D3 aids in raising overall vitamin D levels in the body.