Vitamin D2, also known as ergocalciferol, is a type of vitamin D that is commonly used as a supplement to increase vitamin D intake. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus. Some key points about vitamin D2 include:
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Sources: Vitamin D2 mainly comes from plant sources and fortified foods, such as mushrooms grown in UV light and fortified foods.
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Uses: Vitamin D2 is used to prevent or treat various bone disorders, medical conditions that cause low levels of calcium or phosphate, and as a supplement in babies who breastfeed.
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Comparison with Vitamin D3: Research suggests that vitamin D2 is less effective than vitamin D3 at raising blood levels of vitamin D. Vitamin D3 is found in animal-sourced foods and is obtained from sun exposure and meat, such as fish oil and egg yolk.
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Stability: Vitamin D2 is more sensitive to humidity and fluctuations in temperature, which may affect its stability over time.
In summary, vitamin D2 is an important nutrient that plays a crucial role in the bodys absorption of calcium and phosphorus, and it is commonly used as a supplement to address deficiencies and related conditions.
