Vitamin D
Cholecalciferol (D3)
Strong evidence
A fat-soluble vitamin the body makes from sunlight exposure and obtains in smaller amounts from food.
- Botanical / chemical name
- Cholecalciferol (D3)
- Form
- Cholecalciferol
Why it's included
Listed here because it is one of the most commonly asked-about supplements in South Africa. Sun exposure varies widely by season, skin tone, indoor work and sunscreen use.
What the research says
Consistent findings across multiple well-designed human studies.
- Vitamin D is required for calcium absorption and normal bone mineralisation.
- Deficiency is measurable with a blood test, which is the sensible starting point.
What research does not establish
- That routine high-dose supplementation prevents respiratory infection in people with adequate levels.
- That vitamin D treats or prevents any chronic disease on its own.
Safety considerations
- Vitamin D is fat-soluble and can accumulate. Do not exceed the stated serving.
- Test before you dose: ask your doctor for a 25(OH)D blood test.