Also known as:

Cholecalciferol

Vitamin D3 Description

Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in several bodily functions. It is one of the two primary forms of vitamin D, the other being vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol). Vitamin D3 is synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight and can also be obtained through certain foods and supplements. It is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth, supporting the immune system, and regulating cell growth and differentiation.

Most Notable Benefits

• Supports bone health: Vitamin D3 helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in preventing osteoporosis and fractures in older individuals.
• Boosts immune function: Vitamin D3 is known to modulate the immune system, and adequate levels may help reduce the risk of infections and autoimmune diseases.
• Enhances athletic performance: Adequate levels of vitamin D3 can improve muscle function, reduce inflammation, and potentially enhance athletic performance.

Known Conflicts or Potential Isssues

• Individuals with hypercalcemia, sarcoidosis, or kidney disease should consult a healthcare professional before using vitamin D3 supplements, as it may exacerbate these conditions.
• Vitamin D3 is fat-soluble, and its absorption may be affected by fat malabsorption issues or conditions like Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, or cystic fibrosis.

WHY DR. SINCLAIR TAKES Vitamin D3 IN HIS DAILY REGIMEN:

Dr. David Sinclair includes vitamin D3 in his daily regimen due to its role in supporting overall health and its potential to reduce the risk of age-related diseases. In his book “Lifespan: Why We Age and Why We Don’t Have To,” he emphasizes the importance of maintaining optimal vitamin D levels for bone health, immune function, and cellular health.

REPUTABLE SOURCES

• Holick, M. F. (2007). Vitamin D deficiency. New England Journal of Medicine, 357(3), 266-281. Link
• Pludowski, P., Holick, M. F., Pilz, S., Wagner, C. L., Hollis, B. W., Grant, W. B., … & Lerchbaum, E. (2013). Vitamin D effects on musculoskeletal health, immunity, autoimmunity, cardiovascular disease, cancer, fertility, pregnancy, dementia, and mortality—A review of recent evidence. Autoimmunity Reviews, 12(10), 976-989. Link

SUPPORTING PDFs

• Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in high-level athletics athletes
• Vitamin D and human health: lessons from vitamin D receptor null mice
• Vitamin D: importance in the prevention of cancers, type 1 diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis
• Vitamin D and Immunity in Infants and Children
• Vitamin D supplementation to prevent acute respiratory tract infections: systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data