Mark the following statements as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.
f. Vitamin D is required for calcium ion absorption from the intestines and retention in the kidneys.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of Vitamin D in calcium ion absorption. Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium ions in the intestines. It promotes the synthesis of calcium-binding proteins in the intestinal lining, which facilitates calcium uptake into the bloodstream.
2. Step 2: Examine the role of Vitamin D in calcium retention in the kidneys. Vitamin D indirectly influences calcium retention by regulating parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels. PTH increases calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, but Vitamin D itself does not directly retain calcium in the kidneys.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the statement provided. The statement claims that Vitamin D is required for both calcium ion absorption in the intestines and retention in the kidneys. While the first part of the statement is true, the second part is false because Vitamin D does not directly retain calcium in the kidneys.
4. Step 4: Correct the false portion of the statement. A corrected version of the statement would be: 'Vitamin D is required for calcium ion absorption from the intestines and indirectly influences calcium retention in the kidneys through its regulation of parathyroid hormone levels.'
5. Step 5: Review the corrected statement to ensure accuracy and clarity. Confirm that the corrected statement aligns with the physiological roles of Vitamin D in calcium homeostasis.

Key Concepts

Vitamin D Function

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in calcium metabolism. It enhances the intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphate, which are vital for maintaining healthy bones and teeth. Without adequate Vitamin D, the body cannot effectively absorb calcium from food, leading to potential deficiencies.

Calcium Absorption

Calcium absorption refers to the process by which the body takes in calcium from dietary sources through the intestines. This process is significantly influenced by Vitamin D, which facilitates the transport of calcium across the intestinal wall into the bloodstream. Proper calcium absorption is essential for various physiological functions, including muscle contraction and nerve transmission.

Kidney Function in Calcium Retention

The kidneys play a vital role in regulating calcium levels in the body by filtering blood and reabsorbing calcium as needed. Vitamin D aids in this process by promoting the reabsorption of calcium in the renal tubules, thus preventing excessive loss of calcium in urine. This function is critical for maintaining overall calcium homeostasis and preventing conditions like osteoporosis.