Should I take vitamin D or D3?
Olivia House
Updated on February 22, 2026
Both supplements are commonly used for vitamin D supplementation. Studies have shown that vitamin D3 supplements may be superior in raising the body's vitamin D stores.
Which is better for you vitamin D3 or vitamin D?
There are two possible forms of vitamin D in the human body: vitamin D2 and vitamin D3. Both D2 and D3 are simply called “vitamin D,” so there's no meaningful difference between vitamin D3 and just vitamin D.What is difference between vitamin D and D3?
Vitamin D2 and D3 are the two main forms of vitamin D. Vitamin D2 is present in plants and yeast, while D3 comes from animal sources. Vitamin D is essential for a range of bodily functions such as bone, muscle, and immune health. The human body is capable of producing vitamin D in response to sun exposure.Why do doctors prescribe vitamin D instead of D3?
You may wonder why doctors prescribe vitamin D2 instead of D3, if vitamin D3 appears to be more potent than vitamin D2. The vitamin D prescription you get from your doctor is typically for 50,000 units of vitamin D2. Vitamin D2 is indicated to treat calcium disorders and parathyroid disorders.Should I take vitamin D or D3 everyday?
The current recommendations suggest consuming 400–800 IU (10–20 mcg) of vitamin D per day. However, people who need more vitamin D can safely consume 1,000–4,000 IU (25–100 mcg) daily. Consuming more than this is not advised, as it is not linked to any extra health benefits.Vitamin D VS Vitamin D3
Who should not take vitamin D3?
Who should not take VITAMIN D3?
- sarcoidosis.
- high amount of phosphate in the blood.
- high amount of calcium in the blood.
- excessive amount of vitamin D in the body.
- kidney stones.
- decreased kidney function.
What happens if you take too much vitamin D3?
Symptoms and treatment of vitamin D toxicityEarly symptoms of hypercalcemia include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and weakness ( 27 ). Excessive thirst, an altered level of consciousness, high blood pressure, calcification in the kidney tubes, kidney failure, or hearing loss may also develop ( 4 , 28 ).