Natural Medicines Newsletter

Volume 1, Issue 2, 01/29/2009

Question

Is the active form of vitamin D in multivitamins or in calcium/vitamin D found in over the counter supplements the type that can increase absorption of calcium from the intestine?

Answer

No, the active form of Vitamin D that is needed by the body for increased absorption of calcium in the gastrointestinal tract is not what is present in over the counter (OTC) supplements.  Most OTC supplements that contain vitamin D are formulated with cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) which would normally come from our diet.  Some OTC products are formulated with a form derived from plants, ergocalciferol (vitamin D2).(1)  So if both of these forms of vitamin D are inactive, how do they work to increase calcium absorption in the body?......To read the full answer please LOGIN or SUBSCRIBE NOW.