From the Research
Vitamin D3 and K2 should be taken together to support bone health and cardiovascular function, with a recommended daily dosage of 2000 IU of vitamin D3 and 100-200 mcg of vitamin K2 (preferably the MK-7 form), as evidenced by the most recent study in 2023 1.
Key Considerations
- The combination of vitamin D3 and K2 is crucial because vitamin D3 helps the body absorb calcium from the diet, while vitamin K2 directs that calcium to the bones rather than allowing it to accumulate in arteries and soft tissues.
- Taking vitamin D3 alone can increase calcium levels in the blood without ensuring proper utilization, highlighting the importance of the synergistic effect of vitamin D3 and K2.
- The recommended dosage is based on the latest research, which suggests that 2000 IU of vitamin D3 daily is sufficient to raise and maintain serum 25(OH)D concentrations above 50 nmol/L (20 ng/mL) and above 75 nmol/L (30 ng/mL) in >99% and >90% of the general adult population, respectively 1.
Important Precautions
- Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as blood clotting disorders, or those taking anticoagulant medications like warfarin, should consult their healthcare provider before taking vitamin K2, as it may interfere with these medications.
- The most recent and highest quality study on the effects of vitamins K2 and D3 supplementation in patients with severe coronary artery calcification suggests that supplementation with vitamins K2 and D3 may slow down the calcification process 2.
Additional Benefits
- Vitamin K2-7 (MK-7) has been shown to have health-beneficial effects in osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, inflammation, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and peripheral neuropathy, making it a valuable supplement for overall health 3.
- The molecular pathways and roles of vitamin K2-7 as a health-beneficial nutraceutical have been elucidated, highlighting its potential in managing bone loss, improving cardiovascular health, and suppressing proinflammatory mediators 3.