New study shows growth hormone boosts calcium absorption in aging women
Female rats were given growth hormone (GH) and parathyroid hormone (PTH) to see how they affect calcium absorption in older rats. Both GH and PTH increased calcium absorption, with a stronger effect when combined. PTH also raised vitamin D levels, while GH did not. GH and PTH had separate effects on phosphate absorption, and only PTH increased magnesium absorption. GH and PTH increased a protein related to calcium absorption in the intestines. In human intestinal cells, a hormone related to GH increased calcium transport. PTH's effects on calcium and phosphorus absorption seem to be related to vitamin D, while GH's effects are not. GH's effects may be due to a different hormone.