The benefits of supplementing Vitamin D3 & K2

By Zoe Garlington

Two vitamins in one tablet – why? Vitamin D3 & K2 work together synergistically, their main role is to ensure that calcium taken from food is used by the bones and teeth and not stored in our arteries and other soft tissue. There are studies which show that western society is commonly lacking vitamin K but deficiencies in both of these vitamins are extremely common so this is a great supplement to add into your routine. 

So how do these vitamins work together? Lets start with vitamin D3, which causes the formation of osteocalcin, which is the protein storing calcium in the bones. Partnered with Vitamin K2, as only K2 can activate osteocalcin from being produced by D3. In addition to activating osteocalcin K2 also activates Matrix Gla Protein (MGP), which is responsible for regulating calcium in the artery walls. Without these MG Proteins calcium leaves the bones and moves into the arteries which can cause arterosclerosis, the thinning of artery walls which can restrict blood flow.

Vitamin K2 is naturally produced by the intestines, however only in small quantities, so we increase this by supplementing it or eating foods high in vitamin K such as ‘leafy greens’ like kale, broccoli, cabbage and spinach. As we age we become more vulnerable to cardiovascular disease and studies show diet at this age is often even lower in vitamin K, in addition to time spent outside often reduced, leading to a lack of vitamin D. Additionally found in food, vitamin D is in foods such as red meat, egg yolks and oily fish.

If you decide to start taking this supplement my recommendation would be to take this daily as a year round supplement, if you purchase this supplement from us at halo we stock the supplement needs Vitamin D3 & K2 and this contains 125µg (0.125 mg) vitamin D3 and 100µg (0.1 mg) vitamin K2. Dosage for vitamin K is recommended at 1 microgram for every kilogram of body weight a person has. It is important to note that you cannot overdose on vitamin D from sunlight exposure. Saying this it is notable to consider taking a supplement containing vitamin D at at least 10 micrograms a day, especially if you are often indoors or are consistently wearing clothes which cover alot of your skin.

We stock the highly popular Supplement Needs Vitamin D3 & K2 at Halo, so get yours from reception now!