Which vitamin is crucial for the proper function of parathyroid hormone?

Vitamin D plays a critical role in the function of parathyroid hormone (PTH) by facilitating the absorption of calcium and phosphate from the gastrointestinal tract and helping to maintain adequate levels of these minerals in the bloodstream. The action of PTH is closely linked with vitamin D because when blood calcium levels drop, PTH is released to increase calcium levels through various mechanisms: it enhances calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, promotes calcium release from bones, and stimulates the conversion of vitamin D into its active form, calcitriol.

Calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D, in turn aids in the absorption of calcium and phosphate from the diet, which is essential for maintaining bone health and overall mineral balance. Therefore, without sufficient vitamin D, the body cannot effectively utilize PTH to maintain normal calcium levels, highlighting the interdependent relationship between these two components in the regulation of calcium homeostasis.