vitamin D [vit D]

A fat-soluble vitamin (and a hormone).

Including: vitamin D2 and vitamin D3.

It is needed for absorbing and retaining calcium and phosphorus, both critical for bone mineralization.

It should be noted that it is synthesized by the human skin when exposed to sunlight (ultraviolet-B rays).

As few foods contain it naturally, some are fortified with vitamin D2 or vitamin D3.