Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D)

Vitamin D, calciferol, is a fat-soluble vitamin. It is found in food, but also can be made in your body after exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun. Vitamin D exists in several forms, each with a different activity. Some forms are relatively inactive in the body, and have limited ability to function as a vitamin. The liver and kidney help convert vitamin D to its active hormone form.

The major biologic function of vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, helping to form and maintain strong bones. It promotes bone mineralization in concert with a number of other vitamins, minerals, and hormones. Without vitamin D, bones can become thin, brittle, soft, or misshapen. Vitamin D prevents rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults, which are skeletal diseases that result in defects that weaken bones.

Recommended Dietary Allowances: Men = 400 IU (5 mcg); Women = 200 IU (5 mcg); Pregnant Women, Children, Adolescents = 400 IU (10 mcg)

IMPORTANCE:

• Improves absorption and utilization of Calcium and Phosphorous required for bone and teeth formation
• maintains a stable nervous system and normal heart action.

• rickets
• tooth decay
• softening of bones
• improper healing of fractures
• lack of vigor
• muscular weakness
• inadequate absorption of calcium
• retention of phosphorous in the kidneys
• osteomalacia