Vitamins D3 and K2: Understanding the Synergy

[multigraincracker]

https://www.dr-rath-foundation.org/2021/09/vitamins-d3-and-k2-understanding-the-synergy/

Vitamin D by itself is important for maintaining strong bones and a healthy cardiovascular and immune system. It also has anti-cancer properties. The two different types of vitamin D are D2 (ergocalciferol), present in plant-based products such as mushrooms, and D3 (cholecalciferol), present in animal products and fatty fish. It is well known that vitamin D is needed for the effective absorption of calcium from the digestive system, and promoting its mobilization towards the bones. It also helps in regulating the calcium-phosphorus ratio required for healthy bones.

Vitamin D3 works together with vitamin K2 in maintaining calcium balance in the body, affecting the activation of the bone protein (osteocalcin) responsible for the incorporation of calcium in the bones. In clinical trials, a combination of vitamin D3 and vitamin K2 (especially the vitamin K subtype MK-7) increased bone density in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis more effectively than each vitamin taken individually or a placebo.

Besides bone health, the interaction between vitamins D and K in relation to cardiovascular health has been receiving growing research interest. Vitamin K is known for its roles in blood coagulation, as an antioxidant, and in immune system functions, among many others. Its subtype K1 (phylloquinone) is present in leafy greens, while K2 (menaquinone) is found in fermented foods. Both vitamins K1 and K2 are necessary for blood clotting.

I take it for heart, kidney stones and dental health. Seems research supports taking it.

[mitch96]

1. "K1 is present in leafy greens, while K2 is found in fermented foods" aka...

Eat your greens!!! and a bit of kimchi,miso or sauerkraut on the side...

Too much information out there on how eating a whole food plant based diet is way better for your health than the standard American diet.. S.A.D....
YMMV
m

[MLAA]

2. Several vitamin Ks were mentioned.

Have you found a single pill that contains them all? Or do you take several vitamin K pills?

Thanks for the info!

[multigraincracker]

4. I take a K2-D3 pill.

My brother is a retired researcher for big pharmaceutical cos and turn me on to it for my kidney stones.

[MLAA]

6. Thanks!

[wishstar]

3. I started taking the K2 MK-7 last year after my brother had calcification of arteries and bypass

After my brother discovered his artery calcification requiring quadruple bypass (he is a health conscious long distance runner) I saw some articles indicating MK-7 might help prevent the deposit of calcium in arteries so I have been taking it along with Vit D3. The MK-7 is expensive though and I do eat some fermented foods occasionally.

My brother's symptoms occurred during his strenuous runs. So far I haven't noticed any problems with strenuous exercise. I do have osteopenia so maybe it will help keep bones from getting worse. My mother had kidney stones and my cousin died from sepsis caused by blockage from kidney stones so I'm trying to avoid that too and staying hydrated is important.

[multigraincracker]

5. I'm looking for less plaque on my teeth

too. I get a cleaning 3 times a year and it’s be nice to get that down to 2.
My brother has calcium deposits in his old injured ankle and takes it for that.

[No Vested Interest]

7. Correct me if I'm wrong- I understood that vitamin K is a blood-thinner

and is not to be taken if one is taking prescription blood-thinners because of heart disease.

As an elderly female I want to take supplements to preserve and improve my health, but am concerned many commercial compounds contain combinations that might be counter-productive or harmful.