Stronger defenses thanks to vitamin D3
In a recent research work by University of Surrey and the University and Brighton were significant differences between both types of Vitamin D established. These make the influence of vitamin D2 seem rather questionable, whereas Vitamin D3 to strengthen the immune system contributes.
The corresponding study results were published in the English-language journal “Frontiers in Immunology“ published.
Consequences of taking vitamin D
In the study, the experts examined the effects of Vitamin D preparations with vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 on the activity of genes in the blood. The preparations were taken by the participants daily over a period of twelve weeks
Vitamin D3 protects once morest viral and bacterial diseases
Contrary to popular belief, it turned out that both types of vitamin D do not have the same effect, the researchers report. The team found that only vitamin D3 had a modifying effect on the immune system which might strengthen the body once morest viral and bacterial diseases.
„We have shown that vitamin D3 appears to stimulate the body’s type I interferon signaling system – an important part of the immune system that forms a first line of defense once morest bacteria and viruses“, explains study author Professor Colin Smithfrom the University of Surrey in a press release.
Make sure you have enough vitamin D3 in winter
The doctor adds that a healthy vitamin D3 status can help prevent viruses and bacteria from gaining a foothold in the body. This suggests that taking a vitamin D3 supplement or fortified foods can be helpful, especially during the winter months.
Vitamin D3 is primarily formed naturally in the skin from exposure to sunlight or artificial ultraviolet UVB light, and people often have inadequate vitamin D3 levels when living in places where winter sun exposure is very limited.
Vitamin D3 instead of vitamin D2
The study found differences in the effect of vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 on gene activity, which now have to be investigated further in larger studies, explains study author Professor Susan Lanham-New.
The expert adds, however, the current study shows that vitamin D3 should be the preferred form for fortified foods and dietary supplements. (as)
Author and source information
This text corresponds to the specifications of medical specialist literature, medical guidelines and current studies and has been checked by medical professionals.
Swell:
- Louise R. Durrant, Giselda Bucca, Andrew Hesketh, Carla Möller-Levet, Laura Tripkovic, et al.: Vitamins D2 and D3 Have Overlapping But Different Effects on the Human Immune System Revealed Through Analysis of the Blood Transcriptome; in: Frontiers in Immunology (veröffentlicht 24.02.2022), Frontiers in Immunology
- University of Surrey: Study questions the role of vitamin D2 in human health but its sibling, vitamin D3, might be important for fighting infections (veröffentlicht 24.02.2022), University of Surrey
Important NOTE:
This article contains general advice only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. He can not substitute a visit at the doctor.