What is the difference between vitamin D and vitamin D3?
Vitamin D is generally easier and less expensive to produce, hence many supplements and food products are supplemented with Vitamin D. Vitamin D3 is derived from sources such as fish oil and liver, and is what your skin procedures when exposed to sunlight.
What are the symptoms of vitamin D3 deficiency?
A deficiency in vitamin D is usually due to lack of sun exposure, an inability of the skin to processes this exposure, or diet. A vitamin D deficiency can lead to:
- High blood pressure
- Immune system disorders
- Falls and injuries, particularly in older adults
- Multiple sclerosis
- Osteoporosis
What are the natural sources of vitamin D3?
The most well-known source of vitamin D3 is sunlight, there are a few food sources which are also naturally high in vitamin D3, these include;
- Fatty fish and fish oils – Such as trout, sardines, salmon and mackerel
- Red meat – Particularly offal, rather than muscle meat
- Egg yolks – Contain most of the fats and vitamins of the egg, a single yolk can contain up to 37 IU of vitamin D
- Vegetables – Sunlight exposed mushrooms include good levels of vitamin D, other vegetarian or vegan foods include soy products such as tofu and soy milk.
