Scientists found that vitamin D3\u2014which is produced by the body in response to sunlight and found in animal-based foods such as oily fish, egg yolks and liver\u2014is the most efficiently absorbed to boost overall vitamin D levels.\u00a0<\/p>\n
However, millions of people could be taking plant-based vitamin D2\u2014the most common form which is added to fortified foods as it’s cheaper to produce\u2014which the researchers found actually decreases levels of vitamin D3 in the body.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Low vitamin D3 levels heighten the risk of bone disorders such as osteoporosis as it helps the body to absorb calcium.<\/p>\n
Dr Emily Brown, an expert in nutrition at the University of Surrey and study lead author said: ‘We discovered that vitamin D2 supplements can actually decrease levels of vitamin D3 in the body, which is a previously unknown effect.<\/p>\n
‘This study suggests that subject to personal considerations, vitamin D3 supplements may be more beneficial for most individuals over vitamin D2.\u00a0<\/p>\n
In the study, published in the journal Nutrition Reviews, scientists analysed data from randomised controlled trials and found that taking vitamin D2 supplements led to a reduction in vitamin D3 levels.\u00a0<\/p>\n
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Also known as the ‘sunshine vitamin’ people get vitamin D from exposure to sunlight as well as from foods like oily fish, red meat and egg yolks<\/p>\n
In many of the studies, researchers noted that the vitamin D3 levels dropped lower in people taking vitamin D2 compared to those in the control group, who were not supplementing any form of vitamin D.<\/p>\n
Professor Cathie Martin, group leader at the John Innes Centre, who was also involved in the study, said: ‘This meta-analysis highlights the importance of ensuring plant-based vitamin D3 is accessible in the UK.’\u00a0<\/p>\n
Also known as the ‘sunshine vitamin’, people can get vitamin D from exposure to sunlight, as well as from foods like oily fish, red meat and egg yolks.\u00a0<\/p>\n
But it is also possible to top up levels through supplements, available for as little as 2p per pill at high-street pharmacies.\u00a0<\/p>\n
While science has long maintained that vitamin D\u00a0 is crucial for keeping bones, teeth, nerves muscles and the immune system healthy, experts say not all vitamin D is created equal\u2014with vitamin D3 playing a vital role in combating inflammation in the body.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The current study supports previous research led by Professor Colin Smith at the University of Surrey, which found that vitamin D2 and D3 work differently in the body.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The study found that vitamin D3 has a modifying effect on the immune system which could help fortify the body against disease and ward off infection.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Prof Colin concluded: ‘A healthy vitamin D3 status may help prevent viruses and bacteria from gaining a foothold in the body.’\u00a0<\/p>\n
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