No single vitamin is a hormone growth. Growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) are the primary hormones responsible for growth. However, vitamin D plays a crucial role in supporting growth.
Vitamin D's Role in Growth
While not a growth hormone itself, vitamin D significantly impacts growth processes:
- Bone growth and mineralization: Vitamin D regulates calcium and phosphorus metabolism, essential for healthy bone development and growth. [Source: Various studies cited in references including the one from March 18, 2019.]
- Interaction with GH/IGF-1 axis: Studies show a complex interplay between vitamin D and the growth hormone (GH)/insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) system, although the exact mechanisms aren't fully understood. [Source: Multiple studies linked in the provided references, such as the review on vitamin D and the GH/IGF-1 axis in children].
- Combined treatment for growth deficiencies: Research indicates that combining recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) with vitamin D effectively promotes growth and development in children with growth hormone deficiency (GHD). [Source: Studies referenced, notably the one on the combined effect of rhGH and vitamin D on child development].
In summary, vitamin D is not a growth hormone but is vital for bone development and works in conjunction with growth hormones to support overall growth.
