Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). D3 is the form that we produce in our skin when we are exposed to sunlight. Studies that compared D2 and D3 have reported that D3 is more biologically active in raising vitamin D levels in the blood, thus providing the health benefits associated with adequate vitamin D levels. Getting enough vitamin D is a challenge, especially in northern climates. In Canada, we don’t get enough sunlight exposure from October through April to produce vitamin D synthesis in the skin. Evolution has given us the ability to produce vitamin D naturally in our bodies. You can synthesize it just under your skin with sun exposure to your face, arms, hands, or back without sunscreen.However the seasons, geographic latitude, time of day, cloud cover, skin cover, skin colour, smog, and sunscreen affect how much UV rays you absorb and synthesize. It is recommended that all Canadians supplement with vitamin D throughout the year. The latest research indicates that Vitamin D may help strengthen and regulate your immune system, increase bone mineral density, and support cardiovascular health and the list of potential benefits continues to grow. Vitamin D helps both to prevent and reduce the progression of osteoporosis. It may also be effective against bacterial and viral infections. Vitamin D is one of the fat soluble vitamins along with E, A, and K. A base of fat or oil is an ideal carrier to supply vitamin D to the body. Platinum Naturals’ Vitamin D3 provides you with 1,000 IU of vitamin D suspended in medium chain triglycerides (MCT), a form of fatty acid derived from coconut oil that increases the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients.