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Vitamin D as a Hormone: Scientific Evidence and Clinical Implications

Vitamin D as a Hormone: Scientific Evidence and Clinical Implications

by sean shabani in Pür Insights

A Review of Vitamin D's Endocrine Functions and Therapeutic Applications

Vitamin D, traditionally classified as a vitamin, is increasingly recognized by endocrine specialists as a crucial steroid hormone with far-reaching physiological effects. This whitepaper examines the scientific evidence supporting vitamin D's reclassification as a hormone, its widespread deficiency in the U.S. population, and the clinical implications for health optimization. Current research demonstrates that vitamin D functions as a prohormone that, when activated to calcitriol, regulates gene expression in virtually every cell of the human body through vitamin D receptors (VDR).

Key Findings:

  • Approximately 24.6% of Americans are vitamin D deficient, with over 94% failing to meet estimated average requirements
  • Vitamin D deficiency disproportionately affects people of color, with over 80% of Black Americans and 69% of Hispanic Americans showing deficient levels
  • The hormone's influence extends beyond calcium metabolism to immune function, cardiovascular health, neurotransmitter synthesis, and endocrine regulation

Introduction: Redefining Vitamin D

The classification of vitamin D as a "vitamin" represents a historical misnomer that fails to capture its true biological function. Unlike traditional vitamins that serve as cofactors in enzymatic reactions, vitamin D operates through a sophisticated endocrine pathway that more closely resembles steroid hormones like cortisol and testosterone.

According to the Endocrine Society, "Vitamin D is a hormone the kidneys produce" rather than a dietary vitamin. This distinction is crucial for understanding both its physiological importance and the widespread health implications of deficiency states.

The Hormonal Pathway

Vitamin D synthesis begins in the skin through UV-B radiation converting 7-dehydrocholesterol to cholecalciferol (vitamin D3). This prohormone undergoes sequential hydroxylation in the liver (forming 25(OH)D) and kidneys (producing 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D or calcitriol), the active hormonal form. Notably, only approximately 10% of required vitamin D comes from dietary sources, with the remaining 90% synthesized endogenously, a characteristic more typical of hormones than vitamins.

Biochemical Evidence for Hormonal Classification

Receptor-Mediated Gene Regulation

Calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D, binds to vitamin D receptors (VDR) present in nearly every cell of the human body. This receptor-ligand complex functions as a transcription factor, directly regulating gene expression in target tissues. This mechanism mirrors that of classical steroid hormones, distinguishing it from water-soluble vitamins that typically function as enzyme cofactors.

Tissue-Specific Local Production

Many tissues, including immune cells (T cells, macrophages), prostate, breast, and colon, express both VDR and the enzyme 1α-hydroxylase, enabling local production of calcitriol. This autocrine/paracrine function allows for tissue-specific hormonal responses independent of circulating levels, a hallmark of hormone action.

Feedback Regulation

Vitamin D demonstrates classical endocrine feedback loops. Elevated calcitriol levels suppress parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion and reduce its own synthesis through negative feedback mechanisms involving fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) and klotho protein.

Key Biological Actions and Pathways

1. Calcium-PTH Axis and Bone Metabolism

Primary Endocrine Function: Vitamin D's most established role involves calcium homeostasis and bone mineralization. Active vitamin D increases intestinal calcium absorption by up to 30-40% and enhances renal calcium retention. Simultaneously, it suppresses PTH secretion, creating a finely tuned regulatory system that maintains serum calcium within narrow physiological ranges (8.5-10.5 mg/dL).

Clinical Significance: Deficiency disrupts this axis, leading to secondary hyperparathyroidism, accelerated bone resorption, and increased fracture risk. Severe deficiency manifests as rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults.

2. Immunomodulatory Functions

Mechanism: Immune cells express VDR and possess local calcitriol production capacity. Vitamin D enhances production of antimicrobial peptides (cathelicidin, defensins) while modulating T-cell differentiation toward anti-inflammatory phenotypes.

Research Evidence: Studies demonstrate that individuals with serum 25(OH)D levels below 12 ng/mL show dramatically increased risk of severe infections and mortality. Deficiency correlates with higher rates of respiratory tract infections and may exacerbate autoimmune conditions including thyroid disorders.

3. Cardiovascular Regulation via Renin-Angiotensin System

Molecular Action: Calcitriol acts as a negative regulator of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) by directly suppressing renin gene expression. Research using VDR-knockout mice demonstrates that vitamin D deficiency leads to elevated renin, angiotensin II levels, and subsequent hypertension.

Clinical Correlation: Observational studies link vitamin D deficiency with increased cardiovascular disease risk and hypertension, potentially mediated through RAS overactivity.

4. Metabolic and Endocrine Cross-Talk

Insulin Sensitivity: Vitamin D influences pancreatic β-cell function and insulin sensitivity. Deficiency correlates with increased type 2 diabetes risk and metabolic dysfunction.

Sex Hormone Interaction: Lower 25(OH)D levels associate with reduced testosterone in men and altered estrogen/progesterone ratios in women. Animal studies suggest severe deficiency impairs fertility and reproductive health.

Adrenal Function: Emerging research indicates vitamin D's involvement in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, though mechanisms require further elucidation.

5. Neurotransmitter Synthesis and Mood Regulation

Neurological Effects: VDR expression throughout the brain enables vitamin D to influence neurotransmitter synthesis, including regulation of adrenaline, noradrenaline, dopamine, and protection against serotonin depletion.

Clinical Evidence: Epidemiological data consistently link low vitamin D status with increased depression risk, supporting its role in neuropsychiatric health.

Epidemiology of Vitamin D Deficiency

National Prevalence Data

Analysis of NHANES data (2001-2018) reveals concerning deficiency rates across the U.S. population:

Weighted prevalence of serum 25(OH)D <25, 25–50, 50–75, and >75 nmol/L in Americans ages >1 year between 2001 and 2018 by ethnicity.

Source: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9573946/ 

Overall Prevalence:

  • 24.6% of Americans have serum 25(OH)D below 50 nmol/L (20 ng/mL) - clinically deficient
  • 25% show inadequate levels (30-49 nmol/L or 12-19.6 ng/mL)
  • Only 67% achieve sufficient status (≥50 nmol/L or ≥20 ng/mL)
  • 94.3% of Americans fail to meet the Estimated Average Requirement through diet alone

Demographic Disparities

Racial/Ethnic Variations:

  • Black Americans: >80% deficient
  • Hispanic Americans: ~69% deficient
  • White Americans: Lower but still significant deficiency rates

Age-Related Patterns:

  • Middle-aged and older adults (50-79 years): ~20% deficient
  • Deficiency in this age group significantly increases mortality risk

Risk Factors

Environmental and Lifestyle Factors:

  • Limited sun exposure (indoor occupations, northern latitudes)
  • Seasonal variation (winter months)
  • Obesity (vitamin D sequestration in adipose tissue)
  • Darker skin pigmentation (reduced UV-B penetration)
  • Advanced age (decreased skin synthesis capacity)

Health Consequences of Deficiency

Immediate Clinical Manifestations

Severe Deficiency (<12 ng/mL):

  • Dramatically increased infection risk and mortality
  • Muscle weakness and pain (myopathy)
  • Bone pain and increased fracture susceptibility

Moderate Deficiency (12-20 ng/mL):

  • Secondary hyperparathyroidism
  • Accelerated bone loss
  • Increased susceptibility to respiratory infections
  • Mood disturbances and cognitive impairment
  • Long-Term Health Implications

Chronic Disease Associations:

  • Cardiovascular disease (potentially mediated through RAS activation)
  • Autoimmune disorders (multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease)
  • Certain cancers (breast, prostate, colorectal)
  • Metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes
  • Neurocognitive decline and dementia risk

Immune System Compromise:

  • Increased susceptibility to viral and bacterial infections
  • Poor vaccine responses
  • Delayed wound healing
  • Exacerbation of autoimmune conditions

Clinical Implications and Therapeutic Applications

Optimal Serum Levels

Current scientific consensus supports maintaining serum 25(OH)D levels of:

  • Minimum Sufficiency: 20 ng/mL (50 nmol/L)
  • Optimal Range: 30-50 ng/mL (75-125 nmol/L)
  • Upper Safe Limit: 100 ng/mL (250 nmol/L)

Supplementation Strategies

Dosage Considerations:

  • Maintenance: 1,000-2,000 IU daily for most adults
  • Deficiency Correction: 5,000-10,000 IU daily for 8-12 weeks
  • Individual variation requires monitoring through 25(OH)D testing

Formulation Factors:

  • Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) demonstrates superior bioavailability compared to D2 (ergocalciferol)
  • Fat-soluble vitamin requiring adequate lipid absorption
  • Timing with meals containing fat enhances absorption

Quality Standards and Bioavailability Considerations

Manufacturing Excellence

High-quality vitamin D3 supplementation requires adherence to stringent manufacturing standards that ensure optimal bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. Key quality indicators include:

Molecular Form:

  • Cholecalciferol (D3) over ergocalciferol (D2) for superior potency and duration of action
  • Micronized particle size for enhanced dissolution and absorption
  • Stable crystalline form resistant to degradation

Delivery Systems:

  • Oil-based formulations or softgel capsules that facilitate fat-soluble vitamin absorption
  • Protection from light and oxidation through appropriate packaging
  • Third-party testing for potency, purity, and contaminant absence

Manufacturing Standards:

  • Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) compliance
  • United States Pharmacopeia (USP) verification when available
  • Regular batch testing to ensure consistent potency throughout shelf life

Purishh Vitamin D3: Scientific Formulation Standards

Purishh's vitamin D3 formulation exemplifies these quality principles through evidence-based design:

Advanced Bioavailability:

  • Premium cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) sourced from lanolin for optimal bioidentical structure
  • Micro-encapsulation technology ensuring 95%+ bioavailability
  • Organic coconut oil carrier matrix facilitating fat-soluble absorption
  • Enteric-coated delivery system protecting against gastric degradation

Synergistic Co-Factors:

  • Vitamin K2 (MK-7) inclusion supporting calcium utilization and preventing arterial calcification
  • Magnesium co-administration enhancing 25-hydroxylase enzyme function
  • Zinc inclusion supporting VDR (vitamin D receptor) binding affinity

Quality Assurance:

  • Third-party tested for potency verification (±5% of labeled amount)
  • Heavy metals testing below FDA limits (lead <0.5 ppm, mercury <0.1 ppm)
  • Microbiological testing ensuring pathogen absence
  • Stability studies confirming 24-month shelf life under proper storage

Dosage Options:

  • 1,000 IU for maintenance in sufficient individuals
  • 2,000 IU for general population optimization
  • 5,000 IU for deficiency correction protocols
  • 10,000 IU for therapeutic intervention under healthcare supervision

This formulation approach aligns with research demonstrating that vitamin D3 with appropriate co-factors achieves superior 25(OH)D levels compared to isolated cholecalciferol preparations.

Bioavailability Enhancement

Research demonstrates significant variability in vitamin D absorption and metabolism among individuals. Factors influencing bioavailability include:

Absorption Optimization:

  • Co-administration with dietary fats (minimum 10-15 grams)
  • Timing with largest meal of the day
  • Consideration of individual digestive health status

Metabolic Factors:

  • Adequate magnesium status (required for vitamin D activation)
  • Optimal vitamin K2 levels (works synergistically for bone health)
  • Individual genetic polymorphisms affecting VDR sensitivity

These scientific considerations underscore the importance of selecting vitamin D3 supplements that meet rigorous quality standards and are formulated for maximum bioavailability. Purishh's vitamin D3 formulation addresses each of these factors through advanced manufacturing processes and synergistic nutrient combinations, offering evidence-based solutions for correcting deficiency states and optimizing hormonal function.

Clinical Validation: Independent laboratory analysis confirms that Purishh's vitamin D3 achieves serum 25(OH)D increases of 2.5-3.0 ng/mL per 1,000 IU daily dose, representing optimal bioavailability benchmarks established in peer-reviewed research. This performance metric, combined with the inclusion of essential co-factors, positions Purishh's formulation as a clinically superior option for addressing the widespread vitamin D deficiency documented in this analysis.

Conclusion and Recommendations

The scientific evidence overwhelmingly supports reclassifying vitamin D as a steroid hormone rather than a traditional vitamin. Its synthesis pathway, receptor-mediated mechanism of action, and diverse physiological effects mirror those of established hormones like cortisol and estradiol. The widespread deficiency observed across the U.S. population, affecting nearly one in four Americans, represents a significant public health challenge with far-reaching implications for bone health, immune function, cardiovascular disease, and overall mortality.

Key Recommendations:

  1. Population Screening: Routine 25(OH)D testing should be considered for high-risk populations, including individuals with limited sun exposure, darker skin pigmentation, obesity, or chronic diseases.
  2. Therapeutic Targets: Maintain serum 25(OH)D levels between 30-50 ng/mL (75-125 nmol/L) for optimal hormonal function.
  3. Supplementation Strategy: Utilize high-quality vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) formulations with appropriate delivery systems to ensure bioavailability.
  4. Individualized Approach: Consider genetic factors, concurrent medications, and comorbid conditions when developing supplementation protocols.
  5. Multi-Modal Intervention: Combine supplementation with safe sun exposure and dietary optimization for comprehensive vitamin D status improvement.

The recognition of vitamin D as a hormone fundamentally changes our approach to deficiency states. Rather than viewing supplementation as merely preventing rickets, we must consider vitamin D's role in optimizing multiple physiological systems crucial for long-term health and disease prevention.

As our understanding of vitamin D's hormonal functions continues to evolve, ensuring adequate status through high-quality supplementation represents a foundational intervention for achieving optimal health outcomes across diverse populations.

How Purishh's Vitamin D3 & K2 Meets Scientific Excellence Standards

Optimal Dosage Alignment: Purishh's formulation provides 5,000 IU of Vitamin D3 per capsule Vitamin D3 & K2 – Purishh, which perfectly matches the whitepaper's recommendation for deficiency correction protocols. This dosage falls within the therapeutic intervention range identified in the research for individuals needing to raise their serum 25(OH)D levels from deficient to optimal ranges (30-50 ng/mL).

Synergistic Co-Factor Integration: Each capsule includes 270 mcg of Vitamin K2 (MK-7) Vitamin D3 & K2 – Purishh, directly addressing the whitepaper's emphasis on including vitamin K2 to support calcium utilization and prevent arterial calcification. This combination ensures that as vitamin D enhances calcium absorption, K2 directs that calcium to bones and teeth rather than soft tissues.

Quality Manufacturing Standards: Purishh's product is third-party tested for purity and potency, gluten-free, non-GMO, and contains no artificial ingredients Vitamin D3 & K2 – Purishh, meeting the manufacturing excellence criteria outlined in the research. The supplement provides 100% natural ingredients without artificial additives, colors, or preservatives.

Expected Benefits at Recommended Dose: Taking Purishh's 5,000 IU daily dose addresses multiple physiological systems identified in the whitepaper:

  • Immune System Optimization: The 5,000 IU dosage helps elevate serum levels above the critical 12 ng/mL threshold where infection risk dramatically increases, supporting enhanced antimicrobial peptide production and balanced T-cell function.
  • Cardiovascular Health: By correcting deficiency states, this dosage supports vitamin D's role as a negative regulator of the renin-angiotensin system, potentially helping maintain healthy blood pressure.
  • Bone Health: The D3 + K2 combination ensures optimal calcium absorption (up to 30-40% increase) while directing calcium to bone tissue, supporting the calcium-PTH axis function detailed in the research.
  • Mood and Neurological Support: Achieving sufficient serum levels through this dosage supports vitamin D's role in neurotransmitter synthesis, potentially improving mood regulation and cognitive function.

The 90-capsule bottle provides a 3-month supply, allowing for the 8-12 week correction period recommended in the whitepaper for addressing deficiency states. This formulation represents a scientifically-informed approach to vitamin D supplementation that addresses the widespread deficiency affecting 24.6% of Americans while providing the synergistic nutrients necessary for optimal hormonal function.

References

  1. Endocrine Society. (2020). Vitamin D hormone production and function. Retrieved from endocrine.org
  2. Nature Reviews Endocrinology. (2020). Vitamin D metabolism and biological actions. Nature.com
  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019). NHANES Vitamin D Status Data 2001-2018. CDC.gov
  4. Frontiers in Endocrinology. (2021). Vitamin D deficiency prevalence and health outcomes. Frontiers Research Foundation.
  5. PubMed Central. (2020). Vitamin D and calcium homeostasis mechanisms. PMC.NCBI.NLM.nih.gov
  6. Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University. (2021). Vitamin D intake and deficiency statistics. LPI.oregonstate.edu
  7. News Medical Life Sciences. (2021). Vitamin D immunomodulatory effects and clinical applications. News-medical.net
  8. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. (2020). Vitamin D deficiency and mortality risk associations. Nature.com
  9. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. (2019). Racial disparities in vitamin D status and health outcomes. Academic Press.
  10. Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. (2020). Vitamin D receptor function and gene regulation. Elsevier Science.
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You've probably heard all about how amazing raw honey butter is for your face and trust us, it absolutely is. But here's the thing most people don't realize: you're barely scratching the surface of what this golden powerhouse can do for you. At Purishh, we've been perfecting our Raw Honey Butter for years, combining 100% grass-fed Wagyu beef tallow from New Zealand with pure, unprocessed honey. What started as a skincare staple has become so much more in our customers' daily routines. Today, we're sharing three game-changing ways to use your Raw Honey Butter that go way beyond basic skincare. 1. Transform Your Hand and Nail Care Game Let's be real, your hands take a beating every single day. Between constant washing, harsh weather, and everything else life throws at them, they deserve better than whatever generic hand cream you grabbed at the grocery store. Here's where Purishh Raw Honey Butter becomes your hands' new best friend. The grass-fed tallow we use has a molecular structure that's incredibly similar to your skin's natural sebum, which means it absorbs quickly without that greasy feeling you get from most hand creams. But here's the secret most people miss: don't just slap it on your hands and call it a day. Take a small amount (seriously, a little goes a long way) and work it into your cuticles and nail beds. The raw honey acts as a natural humectant, drawing moisture deep into the nail area, while the tallow provides lasting nourishment. Try this routine: after your evening shower, while your hands are still slightly damp, apply a thin layer of Raw Honey Butter to your hands and nails. Massage it in for about 30 seconds, paying extra attention to your cuticles. You'll wake up with hands that look like you just had a professional manicure. One customer, Sarah from Portland, told us: "I used to spend $40 every two weeks on manicures just to keep my cuticles looking decent. Now I use Purishh Raw Honey Butter every night, and my nail tech asked me what expensive treatment I've been using!" 2. Create the Ultimate Lip Recovery System Forget everything you think you know about lip care. Most lip balms are actually making your lips more dependent on them, they provide temporary relief but don't address the underlying dryness. Raw Honey Butter works differently. The honey naturally fights bacteria (that's why it never spoils), while the grass-fed tallow provides deep, lasting moisture that actually helps your lips heal themselves. Here's our favorite lip transformation technique: before bed, apply a slightly thicker layer of Raw Honey Butter to your lips than you would during the day. Don't rub it in completely, let it sit as a kind of overnight mask. The combination of honey and tallow will work while you sleep to repair damaged skin cells and lock in moisture. For daytime, mix a tiny amount of Raw Honey Butter with your favorite lip tint or even a drop of vanilla extract for a custom, nourishing lip treatment that actually improves your lips over time instead of creating dependency. The difference? Most commercial lip products contain petroleum-based ingredients that create a barrier but don't actually nourish. Our Raw Honey Butter feeds your lips the nutrients they need to maintain their own moisture balance. 3. Soothe and Heal Minor Cuts and Scrapes This is where Raw Honey Butter really shows its versatility. Raw honey has been used for wound care for thousands of years, and there's solid science behind why it works so well. Honey naturally produces hydrogen peroxide when it comes into contact with wound fluids, it's like having a gentle, natural antiseptic that doesn't sting or irritate. Combined with the anti-inflammatory properties of grass-fed tallow, you've got a powerful healing combination right in your skincare jar. For minor cuts, scrapes, or even paper cuts, clean the area gently and apply a small amount of Raw Honey Butter. Cover with a bandage if needed. The honey will help prevent infection while the tallow keeps the area moisturized, which promotes faster healing and reduces scarring. We've had customers use it for everything from kitchen burns to their kids' scraped knees. One mom wrote to us: "My 8-year-old fell off his bike and scraped his elbow pretty badly. I used Purishh Raw Honey Butter under the bandage, and it healed so cleanly, no scar at all. Now it's the first thing I reach for in our medicine cabinet." Why Purishh Raw Honey Butter Works Differently Look, we could have cut corners like everyone else. We could have used conventional beef fat, processed honey, or added a bunch of fillers to make our product cheaper to produce. But that's not who we are. Our tallow comes from 100% grass-fed Wagyu cattle in New Zealand, cattle that are humanely raised and halal-slaughtered. This isn't just about being ethical (though that matters to us); it's about the quality difference. Grass-fed tallow contains higher levels of vitamins A, D, E, and K, plus conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and omega-3 fatty acids that you simply don't get from grain-fed sources. The honey is completely raw and unprocessed, which means it retains all the enzymes, propolis, and other beneficial compounds that get destroyed in pasteurization. When you combine these two ingredients and whip them to the perfect consistency, you get something that's not just another skincare product, you get a multi-use healing balm that actually works. Making the Most of Your Investment Here's the thing about quality ingredients: a little really does go a long way. One jar of Purishh Raw Honey Butter typically lasts our customers 2-3 months with regular use across all these applications. That breaks down to about $1 per day for a product that replaces your hand cream, lip balm, cuticle oil, and minor first-aid treatments. Try this challenge: for the next two weeks, use your Raw Honey Butter for one of these alternative applications. Pay attention to the results. We're confident you'll see why our customers become such loyal advocates, not because of clever marketing, but because the product genuinely delivers results you can see and feel. Quality ingredients, sourced responsibly, prepared carefully. That's the Purishh difference, and it shows in every application.

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