Vitamin D3 is a vital nutrient that plays a crucial role in calcium metabolism, bone health and immune support, yet many individuals struggle to obtain sufficient levels through traditional sources. As demand for plant-based solutions grows, vitamin D3 from pine tree sterols has emerged as a viable alternative for vegans and those avoiding animal products. This shift to plant-based sources reflects both dietary preference and the need to address nutritional gaps in modern diets. Research by Walker et al. highlights the link between dietary changes and chronic diseases, emphasizing the need for nutrient-rich alternatives in modern nutrition.[1]
ECA’s unique 100% plant-based, Vegan Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) is derived from Pine Tree Sterol, making it ideal for use in Vegan and Vegetarian products. Vitamin D3 is essential for maintaining calcium homeostasis and bone health, with potential benefits in reducing the risks of hypertension, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, and cancer. [1]
Traditionally, Vitamin D3 is synthesized in the skin via UV-B exposure or derived from animal sources such as fish oil and lanolin from sheep’s wool. However, for vegans and vegetarians, these sources are not viable, prompting the development of plant-based alternatives. PineD3® sourced from pine tree sterol is an innovative solution for those avoiding animal products.
Pine trees contain sterols such as beta-sitosterol and campesterol, as noted in studies on pine bark sterols.[2] These sterols, structurally similar to cholesterol, act as precursors in the synthesis, aligning with findings that plants can be a source of phytosterols used in nutritional and pharmaceutical applications. [3]
The health benefits of Vegan Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) sourced from pine tree sterol are increasingly recognized as essential for various physiological functions. Vitamin D3 plays a pivotal role in calcium absorption, supporting bone health, immune support, and mitigating the risks associated with osteoporosis.
PineD3® is a plant-based Vitamin D3 derived from pine tree sterol, offering a promising alternative for vegans and vegetarians through proprietary synthesis technology. While not naturally occurring, it offers a sustainable, ethical option with potential applications in health and wellness.
References:
[1] Walker, Catherine. (2021). Quantifying Human Dietary Change over the Last 30,000 Years.
[2] Black, Lucinda J et al. “In Pursuit of Vitamin D in Plants.” Nutrients vol. 9,2 136. 13 Feb. 2017, doi:10.3390/nu9020136
[3] John W. Rowe,The sterols of pine bark, Phytochemistry.
[4] Canales, M.J.. (2014). From foods to pharmaceuticals: The benefits of pine sterols. 124. 12-14.
[5] G. T. Kazhibayeva, K. S. Issayeva. “Functional Food Production Technology” Kereku, 2018, 130 p
[6] Symington A et al “A Community Guide to Cancer Nutrition” 2023
