Increase vitamin D effectiveness with vitamin K2
Description
Maximise vitamin D benefits & prevent side effects with K2-the perfect pair for immune, bone & heart health. Proven to increase absorption by 32% & reduce calcification.
Why we recommend this
- Limited sun exposure reduces natural Vitamin D synthesis
- Dr. Michael Holick's research demonstrates that vitamin D acts more like a hormone than a vitamin, influencing over 2,000 genes
- A 3-year randomised controlled trial published in Osteoporosis International found that women taking vitamin D with K2 had 25% higher bone mineral density improvement compared to vitamin D alone
- Research in the Journal of Nutrition demonstrated that vitamin K2 (MK-7) reduces arterial calcification by 36% in patients supplementing with vitamin D, compared to those taking vitamin D without K2
- Dr. Rhonda Patrick's research review shows that vitamin K2 activates osteocalcin and matrix GLA protein (MGP), directing calcium to bones and away from soft tissues, preventing the potential negative effects of vitamin D supplementation
- The Rotterdam Study, following 4,807 participants over 10 years, found that higher vitamin K2 intake was associated with a 57% reduction in coronary heart disease mortality
- A study in the European Journal of Endocrinology demonstrated that combined D3+K2 supplementation significantly improved insulin sensitivity compared to vitamin D3 alone, with 23% better glucose metabolism markers
Usage
2000-5000 IU Vitamin D3 + 100-200 mcg K2
Timing
Take with your largest meal containing fat (preferably breakfast or lunch) to increase absorption by up to 32% compared to taking on empty stomach
Important notes
- Specifically choose vitamin K2 as MK-7 form (menaquinone-7) rather than MK-4, as MK-7 has a longer half-life (72 hours vs. 1-2 hours) and provides more consistent blood levels
- Consider getting your Vitamin D levels tested before starting supplementation
- Individuals taking warfarin or other vitamin K antagonist medications should consult their physician before supplementing with vitamin K2, as it may reduce medication effectiveness
- While vitamin D toxicity is rare, doses above 10,000 IU daily for extended periods may cause hypercalcemia - always measure blood levels before exceeding this dose
- For optimal absorption, choose oil-based vitamin D3 supplements rather than dry tablets, as research in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism shows 32% better absorption
- Consider adding magnesium (300-400mg daily) to your regimen, as it's required for vitamin D activation and over 50% of Americans are deficient according to NIH data