VITAMIN D3, HORMONES,BONES ,AND ORGANS

The kidneys make a hormone called Calcitrol, a unique form of vitamin D. Vitamin D is in actuality not a vitamin but a type of steroidal hormone that is synthesized in a unique endocrine system in the body. During sunlight exposure the human skin converts a form of cholesterol to Vitamin D3 the liver alters or metabolizes this again (into 25- hydroxycholecalciferolaka 25-OHD3, then the kidneys use that altered substance to make two highly biologically active hormones. One of them Calcitriol, acts on the cells of the intestine to increase absorption of calcium from the diet and direct it to the bones for bone formation. Some of this calcium is also used to patch damaged blood vessels contributing to arteriosclerosis. Calcitriol also regulates certain parathyroid hormones that maintain the bodys level of phosphorus. The kidneys constantly monitor the levels of calcium and phosphorus in the body and increase or decrease them as needed. Through calcitrol the kidneys regulate bone mineralization and maintain the transfer of calcium to the bones to make them stronger. They effect not only the bone marrow in the creation of red blood cells but also the bone itself. Low androgen levels in men also have an impact on kidney function.

Source : Stephen Harrod Buhner, Herbalist and noted author of
Vital Man - Natural Health Care For Men at Midlife.