Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, is one of two forms of vitamin D used by humans. D3 is the form produced in the bodies of humans and animals with the help of exposure to ultraviolet (UVB) rays from the sun.
Types
Cholecalciferol is converted first to calcidiol, the form of D3 found in the blood. Calcidiol is then converted to calcitriol in the kidney and throughout the body.
Identification
As a fat soluble vitamin, D3 is unique because its active forms---calcidiol and calcitriol---are powerful hormones. The initial form, calcidiol, is measured in blood tests to determine deficiencies.
Effects
Calcidiol maintains normal blood levels of vitamin D3. Calcitriol manages blood levels of calcium and performs many other functions throughout the body.
Benefits
Vitamin D3 helps prevent the bone-thinning disease osteoporosis by managing calcium levels, and also helps control blood pressure and protect against certain types of cancer.
Sources
Humans get vitamin D3 from natural sunlight, artificial light, supplements and foods that have been fortified with cholecalciferol such as dairy products and cold cereals.
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