Vitamin D Organic Compounds - Essay Example

Vitamin D Vitamins are organic compounds that are quintessential for all sorts of activities including growth, respiration, and locomotion. They are further divided into different types, each of which performs a specific function concerning its organic structure. 

A popular sub-type of the compound, Vitamin D, is Vitamin D3. It is also known as cholecalciferol. The production of this very specific sub-type of Vitamin D which is Vitamin D3 takes place in the human skin. It is produced in the skin when a chemical called 7-dehydrocholesterol is in a chemical reaction with ultraviolet rays. The bi-weekly requirement of a normal human being is ten to twenty minutes of exposure to the sunlight, on either their arms, hands, back, or face without the application of sunscreen.

For this exposure, the ultraviolet exposure index must reach more than three. In the case where there is exposure for a longer time, the supply of the vitamin produced may degrade very quickly – as quickly as it may be produced, in most cases. Vitamin D3 plays an important role in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the body. It also helps in the proper functioning of the minerals. Calcium and phosphorus form important components of bones and teeth. The osteoclastic (bone-breaking cells) cells break the bones to generate calcium when needed.

Low levels of calcium and phosphorus can hence cause different bone-related disorders and dental problems (Sherry, 2011). As a result, Vitamin D3 can also be an important factor in preventing rickets, osteomalacia, and osteoporosis. The usage of Vitamin D3, at a normal rate, may not have any side effects; however, if taken in excess, it may make the user nauseate and may result in constipation. Furthermore, there may be symptoms of a greater amount of thirst and urination, mood swings, and tardiness.

“Rodents are somewhat more susceptible to high doses than other species, and Cholecalciferol has been used in poison bait for the control of these pests. It has been claimed that the compound is less toxic to non-target species. However, in practice, it has been found that the use of Cholecalciferol in rodenticides represents a significant hazard to other animals, such as dogs and cats” (Merck Veterinary Manual – Rodenticide Poisoning Introduction, n.d.