Vitamin D

Vitamin

Vitamin D at a glance

Category
Vitamin
Also called
D2, D3, Ergocalciferol, Cholecalciferol
Commonly found in
Fortified milk, Fortified cereals, Fortified orange juice, Egg yolks
Diets reviewed
26 diets

What is Vitamin D?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is critical for maintaining healthy bones and teeth. It also plays an essential role in immune system function. There are two main forms of vitamin D in supplements and fortified foods: vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Vitamin D3 is typically derived from animal sources, whereas vitamin D2 can be derived from plant sources, making it suitable for vegans.

Also known as:

D2D3ErgocalciferolCholecalciferol

Diet Compatibility

VeganCaution

Vitamin D can come from either animal or plant sources. Common animal sources include fish liver oil, milk, and egg yolks. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.

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VegetarianCaution

Vitamin D can come from either animal or plant sources. Common animal sources include fish liver oil, milk, and egg yolks. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.

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Alpha-Gal FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.

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Barley FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.

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Corn FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Corn Free diet.

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Dairy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.

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Egg FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.

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Fish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.

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Garlic FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.

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GERD FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.

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Gluten FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.

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Lactose FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.

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Low FODMAPSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fodmap diet.

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Lupin FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.

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Milk FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.

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Nightshade FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.

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Oat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.

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Onion FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.

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Peanut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.

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PescatarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Pescatarian diet.

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Rye FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.

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Sesame FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.

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Shellfish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.

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Soy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.

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Tree Nut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.

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Wheat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.

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Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Why People Avoid Vitamin D

People following a vegan diet may avoid vitamin D3 since it is commonly derived from animal sources such as fish liver oil and lanolin (from sheep's wool). Without clear labeling, it can be difficult to determine the source of vitamin D in a product, so it is often recommended to contact the manufacturer for more information. Vitamin D2 is considered a vegan-friendly alternative as it is derived from plant sources like yeast or fungi.

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.

Foods That Commonly Contain Vitamin D

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Related to Vitamin D

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Spoonful reviews ingredients

  • Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
  • Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
  • Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
  • Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.

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