Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D)

Cholecalciferol is the most widely known of the vitamin D series and is a fat soluble vitamin that is stored to some degree in the body. Many people know that sunlight is a source of vitamin D, but this is true only in the fact that ultraviolet light from the sun acts as a catalyst on a vitamin D precursor in the skin. Vitamin D formed in this manner is termed "natural vitamin D" or vitamin D₃. Vitamin D precursors obtained from milk and other products as well as sunlight-produced vitamin D must be metabolized in the liver to form the active coenzyme. The primary functions of vitamin D are stimulation of calcium and magnesium absorption, two minerals that are essential for strong bones. Sources of vitamin D include fish liver oil, butter, and milk.

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