Vitamin D3 is a fat-soluble vitamin the body mostly makes from UVB sunlight on the skin, but latitude, season, time spent indoors, sunscreen use, skin pigmentation and age all limit this natural production; in France, and especially in Paris, sunlight is insufficient for much of the year to meet most people’s vitamin D needs.

Vitamin D3 supports the intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphorus, contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and normal muscle function, supports the normal function of the immune system, and plays a role in the process of cell division.

Traditional vitamin D3 in supplements is extracted from lanolin, a fat found in sheep’s wool — unsuitable for a vegan diet. D3V technology solves this by using cholecalciferol extracted from algae, the same active form as animal-derived D3. The micro-encapsulation process improves the vitamin’s stability and bioavailability, protecting it from light, heat and oxidation for a steady potency throughout shelf life, and allows a gradual release in the body for regular absorption.

Unlike some plant-based vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol), D3V directly supplies cholecalciferol, the form most effectively used by the human body — studies show vitamin D3 is more effective than D2 at raising and maintaining blood levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, the reference marker of vitamin D status.

Take 2 capsules a day with a glass of water, at any time of day; as vitamin D3 is fat-soluble, taking it with a meal containing some fat can help absorption. Ongoing year-round supplementation may be worth considering, particularly for people living in the Paris region or working mainly indoors. A 120-capsule bottle covers a 60-day course.

Store away from heat, humidity and light. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Keep out of reach of children. If in doubt, seek advice from a healthcare professional.

What is the difference between vitamin D2 and D3?

Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) is plant-derived (mushrooms, yeast), while vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is the form the human body naturally produces from sunlight; D3 is considered more effective at raising and maintaining blood vitamin D levels. Novoma’s Vitamin D3 supplies plant-based cholecalciferol through algae-derived D3V technology.

Can vitamin D3 be taken year-round?

Yes, continuous supplementation can be considered, particularly for people living in Paris, where sunlight is limited for much of the year. We recommend having your vitamin D status checked regularly by a healthcare professional to adjust the dose.

Is this product suitable for vegans?

Yes. Novoma’s Vitamin D3 uses a 100% plant-based cholecalciferol source extracted from algae (D3V technology) in a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose capsule — the whole formulation is free from animal-derived ingredients.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.