Ingredient
Vitamin D2
What is Vitamin D2?
Vitamin D2, also known as ergocalciferol, is a type of vitamin D found in plants and fungi. It is created by UV radiation of ergosterol, a compound found in fungi such as mushrooms.
Vitamin D2 is used in foods and supplements to fortify them with vitamin D, playing a critical role in bone health by aiding calcium absorption. The evidence on its effectiveness compared to Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) for raising and maintaining vitamin D levels is mixed, with some studies suggesting D3 might be more effective.
When you see Vitamin D2 on a product label, it indicates the product has been supplemented to help meet dietary vitamin D needs, often in plant-based fortified foods as opposed to animal-derived D3.
Commonly found in: supplements, fortified plant milks, breakfast cereals, margarine, mushroom-based products
Benefits
- Contributes to bone health by supporting calcium absorption.
- Useful for individuals with limited sun exposure.
Vitamin D2 is recognized as generally safe and is approved for use in food products and supplements.
Studies show mixed results on whether Vitamin D2 is as effective as D3 in maintaining optimal vitamin D levels in the body.
Vitamin D2 is plant-derived, making it suitable for vegan diets.
Scout's take
Vitamin D2 is a plant-derived form of vitamin D used to fortify foods, supporting bone health and calcium absorption. It is less effective than vitamin D3 in raising blood levels of vitamin D. Fortification helps address common deficiencies, especially in plant-based diets.
The case against
Overconsumption can lead to toxicity, but this is unlikely from fortified foods alone.
from the analysis of Planet Oat ORIGINAL OATMILKHigh doses can lead to hypercalcemia, but this is rare from fortified foods.
from the analysis of Blue Diamond Almonds UNSWEETENED ALMONDMILK, VANILLAThe case for
Supports bone health and immune function, helping to prevent deficiencies.
from the analysis of Blue Diamond ALMONDMILK, UNSWEETENED ORIGINAL · echoed in 1 other analysisEnhances calcium absorption, supporting bone health and reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
from the analysis of Blue Diamond Almonds UNSWEETENED ALMONDMILK, VANILLAMore from Scout's analyses
Vitamin D2 is a plant-based form of vitamin D used to fortify foods. It is important for calcium absorption and bone health. Fortification helps individuals, especially vegans, meet their vitamin D needs.
from the analysis of Planet Oat ORIGINAL OATMILKVitamin D2 is a plant-derived form of vitamin D used to fortify foods. It supports bone health by aiding calcium absorption. It is especially important for individuals with limited sun exposure.
from the analysis of Blue Diamond Almonds UNSWEETENED ALMONDMILK, VANILLAVitamin D2 supports calcium absorption and bone health, which is important in fortified plant-based beverages.
from the analysis of Silk Almond Milk Alternative, Unsweetened, Dairy FreeFound in 6 products
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