Vitamin D is the only vitamin the body manufactures naturally and is technically considered a hormone.

Since vitamin D is derived from a steroid, the structure keeps the numbering from it's parent compound cholesterol. There are two forms of the vitamin. Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) is derived from ergosterol in the diet, whereas vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is derived from cholesterol via 7-dehydrocholesterol. Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is found in animal skin, and vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) is found in yeast. Cholecalciferol is manufactured in the skin when light energy is absorbed by a precursor molecule 7-dehydrocholesterol. Plants synthesize ergocalciferol, which also has vitamin D activity in humans.

This fat-soluble vitamin is a stable compound, as with any fat-soluble vitamin, vitamin D must be emulsified before it can be used nutritionally. This vitamin is unique in that it acts like a hormone as it targets organs such as the kidneys and intestine. The synthesis of the enzymes in mucous membranes that are important for the transport of calcium to the bones is enhanced by vitamin D. This attributes to vitamin D's capability to promote bone mineralization, maintaining bone growth.

View our product formulation Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D) 

Common Names: Vitamin D, calciferol, cholecalciferol, ergocalciferol

Absorption/Storage: Vitamin D and fats are absorbed through the intestinal walls with the help of bile. The synthesis of vitamin D is inhibited with the use of sunscreens with SPF's higher than 8. After absorption, this vitamin is transported and stored in the liver.

Dosage/Toxicity: Vitamin D is measured in cholecalciferol units. 10 cholecalciferol units is equal to 400 milligrams (international units). The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) says that newborns to 6 month olds require 7.5 ug (300mg). Infants 6 months to 1 year need 10ug (400mg), children of all ages require 10ug (400mg). Males up to the age of 25 need 10ug (400mg) , those 25 and older need 5ug (200mg). Females up to the age of 24 require 10ug (400mg) and those older need 5ug (200mg). Before taking more than 10 times the RDA, you should consult with a physician. When taken in excess, vitamin D is the most toxic. This may lead to a softening of the bones because it enhances calcium absorption. This means that calcium is removed from the bones and deposited in the soft tissues such as the kidneys causing kidney stones. Other problems caused by a toxicity include loss of appetite, nausea, muscular weakness, and tiredness.

Deficiency: Rickets is a vitamin deficiency. This disease is characterized by curved bones, especially in the tibia. The reason this occurs is because the marrow cavity is the site of osteoblast formation. Other symptoms of rickets include softening of the skull, enlargement of the wrist, knee, and ankle joints, and poorly developed muscles. Tetany may also be caused by a deficiency in vitamin D. This is a condition where the muscles feel numb and tingly, and may cause muscle spasms. The structure of teeth may also be effected without enough vitamin D.

Common Use: The teeth are continually strengthened with the use of vitamin D. This vitamin helps to prevent tooth decay and pyorrhea, an inflammation of the tooth sockets. The main function of vitamin D is that it is a catalyst directing the deposition of calcium and phosphorous into the bone, keeping bones healthy and strong.

Food Sources: Milk, salmon, eggs, fortified cereals

Precautions: Consult a physician if pregnant, symptoms of nausea, diarrhea, or dizziness last more than a week, or if new symptoms appear.

Scientific References: Groff, J., Gropper, S., and Hunt, S. (1995). Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism. St. Paul Minnesota: West Publishing Company. Gropper and Hamilton. (1987). The Biochemistry of Human Nutrition. St. Paul, Minnesota: West Publishing Company. Kirschmann, G. and Kirschmann, J. (1996). Nutrition Almanac. New York, New York: McGraw Hill. Murray, M., (1996) Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Unites States of America: Prima Publishing. Murray, M. and Pizzorno, J., (1998) Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. United States of America: Prima Publishing. National Research Council. (1989). Recommended Dietary Allowance. Washington D.C.: National Academy Press. Null, G., (1998) The Complete Encyclopedia of Natural Healing. New York, New York: Kensington Publishing Corp.