
As long as these organs are working properly and you get sunlight exposure, then your body can make sufficient Vitamin D to promote optimum health. This process involves the coordinated activity of the skin, liver, and kidneys. Vitamin D is commonly referred to as the “sunlight vitamin” because it is the only one known to be synthesized in the body in response to direct sunlight exposure. From this newfound appreciation for Vitamin D, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) increased the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) for vitamin D to 600 IU/day for individuals less than 70 years of age and 800 IU/day for those over 70 years of age.īut can’t I get enough Vitamin D from sunlight? Further metabolism also occurs in the kidneys, including the formation of the 1,24,25-trihydroxy derivatives.Įxcretion: Mainly in the bile & faeces with only small amounts appearing in urine.With summer in full swing and everyone enjoying more outdoor activities, I thought it would be timely to share a complete download on the “sunshine vitamin.”Įveryone knows that Vitamin D helps build and maintain strong bones, but recent research findings suggest that Vitamin D also plays a role in an increasing number of vital bodily functions, including cellular growth, immunity, protein synthesis, nutrient absorption, pregnancy/nursing, and influences the risk and/or progression of medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes, influenza, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, periodontal disease, Parkinson’s Disease, depression, autoimmune disorders, and chronic pain.


Further hydroxylated in the kidneys by the enzyme vitamin D1-hydroxylase to form the active metabolites 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (calcitriol). Metabolism: Hydroxylated in the liver by the enzyme vitamin D 25-hydroxylase to form 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (calcifediol). Slowly released from storage sites & skin where it is formed in the presence of sunlight or uv light. Can be stored in adipose & muscle tissue for long periods of time. Hence absorption may be decreased in patients with decreased fat absorption.ĭistribution: Bound to a specific α-globulin. Presence of bile is essential for adequate intestinal absorption.

Along with parathyroid hormone & calcitonin, regulate serum calcium conc.ĭuration: Relatively prolonged duration of action.Ībsorption: Well absorbed from the GI tract. Description: Vit D may have anti-osteoporotic, immunomodulatory, anticarcinogenic, antipsoriatic, antioxidant & mood-modulatory activities.
