Major research findings

Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) has been studied for its various health benefits and has shown promising results in various research studies. 3 suggests that in healthy adults, supplementation with cholecalciferol can influence the levels of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, parathyroid hormone, and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D. 6 highlights that daily intake of cholecalciferol-fortified skim milk by Colombian adolescents led to an increase in serum total and free 25-hydroxyvitamin D. 14 reports a case series of five cats experiencing cholecalciferol toxicity due to excessive vitamin D3 intake from contaminated pet food. 8 shows that a single high dose of oral cholecalciferol can mitigate acute inflammation in healthy adults who experienced an experimentally induced chemical rash. 24 concludes that cholecalciferol or 25-hydroxycholecalciferol supplementation does not impact muscle strength and physical performance in older adults who are either frail or pre-frail. 9 strongly argues against classifying cholecalciferol as an endocrine disruptor. 26 suggests that winter cholecalciferol supplementation has no impact on cardiometabolic risk markers in healthy children aged 4-8 years. 23 reports a case of two patients with advanced melanoma who developed severe osteopenia related fractures after long-term treatment with MEK inhibitors. 25 indicates that winter cholecalciferol supplementation has no significant effect on cardiometabolic risk markers in healthy adolescents aged 14-18 years. 12 developed a risk prediction model for grade ≥2 hypocalcemia in patients with bone metastasis treated with denosumab plus cholecalciferol (vitamin D3)/calcium supplement. 4 explores the molecular basis of the relationship between vitamin D and several conditions like insulin resistance, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular diseases. 21 conducted a randomized window of opportunity trial to evaluate the effects of high-dose cholecalciferol on breast tumor proliferation and apoptosis in breast cancer patients. 22 shows that dietary nutrients can mediate the expression of intestinal host defense peptides. 19 suggests that exposure of cells to vitamin A and D can affect the intracellular uptake of aluminum nanomaterials and their agglomeration behavior. 20 compares the efficacy and safety of alendronate and calcifediol to alendronate and cholecalciferol in osteoporotic patients. 10 investigates the impact of high-dose versus standard-dose vitamin D supplementation on 14-day overall survival in older adults with COVID-19. 1 explored the effects of boron supplementation on broiler chicks fed diets with adequate or inadequate cholecalciferol content. 2 studied the effects of cholecalciferol (vitamin D3)-binding proteins and anti-cytochrome b5 immunoglobulin on cholecalciferol 25-hydroxylase activities in rabbit liver microsomes and mitochondria.

Benefits and Risks

Benefit Summary

Cholecalciferol is linked to several potential health benefits, including improved bone health, a strengthened immune system, a reduced risk of infections, potential prevention of cardiovascular disease, possible cancer prevention, and the possibility of improving insulin resistance. 3 , 6 , 8 , 4

Risk Summary

Excessive intake of cholecalciferol can lead to adverse effects like hypercalcemia, kidney stones, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and muscle weakness. 14

Comparison between Studies

Commonalities between Studies

These studies utilize various research designs to investigate the potential health benefits and risks associated with cholecalciferol. Some studies employed randomized controlled trials to evaluate the impact of cholecalciferol supplementation on health metrics. 6 , 21 , 24 , 26 , 25 , 10

Differences between Studies

Some variations exist between the studies, including the target population, the dosage of cholecalciferol used, the specific health indicators assessed, and the duration of the studies. 6 , 14 , 24 , 26 , 25 , 21 , 10

Consistency and Inconsistencies in Findings

The research findings on the health benefits and risks associated with cholecalciferol are not always consistent. 6 , 14 , 20 show the potential effectiveness of cholecalciferol supplementation, but other studies such as 24 , 26 , 25 indicate that cholecalciferol supplementation may not be effective.

Cautions for Real-World Application

While cholecalciferol supplementation might offer health advantages, it's crucial to remember the risk of excessive intake. It's essential to take cholecalciferol under the guidance of a medical professional. 14 If you're considering cholecalciferol supplementation, consult your doctor to determine the appropriate dosage and method of intake.

Limitations of Current Research

The number of studies on cholecalciferol remains insufficient, and more extensive, long-term research is needed. 21 Additionally, improvements in research design and methodology are required. To evaluate the impact of cholecalciferol on different populations, more rigorous studies are crucial.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on conducting larger, longer-term studies to further clarify the various health benefits and risks associated with cholecalciferol. 21 Research is also needed to determine the optimal dosage and administration methods of cholecalciferol for different populations.

Conclusion

Cholecalciferol has the potential to offer numerous health advantages, but it's important to acknowledge the risks of overconsumption. It's crucial to take cholecalciferol safely under the direction of a healthcare professional. 14 If you're considering cholecalciferol supplementation, it's essential to consult your doctor to determine the appropriate dosage and method of intake.