From the Research
Yes, it is generally recommended to take vitamin K2 when taking high doses of vitamin D, as it helps ensure proper calcium metabolism and reduces potential risks of arterial calcification. Vitamin K2 plays a crucial role in activating proteins that bind calcium to bone tissue, preventing it from depositing in blood vessels and soft tissues. When taking vitamin D supplements, especially at doses above 2,000 IU daily, adding K2 (typically 100-200 mcg daily) can help maintain proper calcium metabolism and reduce the risk of adverse effects 1.
Key Points to Consider
- The synergistic interplay between vitamins D and K is essential for bone and cardiovascular health, as supported by genetic, molecular, cellular, and human studies 2.
- High-dose vitamin D supplementation can increase the risk of arterial calcification, which can be mitigated by concurrent vitamin K2 supplementation 1.
- The two most common forms of K2 are MK-4 and MK-7, with MK-7 having a longer half-life in the body.
- Vitamin D increases calcium absorption from the digestive tract, while K2 activates proteins that bind calcium to bone tissue and prevent it from depositing in blood vessels.
Recommended Dosage
- Vitamin K2: 100-200 mcg daily, typically in the form of MK-7.
- Vitamin D: doses above 2,000 IU daily may require concurrent vitamin K2 supplementation to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
Clinical Implications
- Healthcare providers should consider recommending vitamin K2 supplementation to patients taking high-dose vitamin D supplements to minimize the risk of arterial calcification and maintain proper calcium metabolism.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the effects of high-dose vitamin D supplementation on cardiovascular health and the potential benefits of concurrent vitamin K2 supplementation 1, 3.