Vitamin D Supplements Linked to Decrease in Specific Vitamin D Type

Rapid Summary

• Vitamin D Production: Human bodies create vitamin D₃ using sunlight, wiht supplements frequently enough recommended during darker months in countries like the UK.
• Types of Supplements: Two forms exist-vitamin D₃, derived from animal sources, and vitamin D₂, derived from plants (e.g., mushrooms). Both were thought to be equally effective.
• New Findings: A meta-analysis of 11 studies (655 participants) by researchers at the University of Surrey shows that taking vitamin D₂ can reduce levels of vitamin D₃. Vitamin D₃, but not D₂, uniquely supports immune functions and type-I interferon signaling critical for combating infections.
• Supplement Choice Considerations: Despite its limitations in immune support, vitamin D²