Strong bones, good immunity and healthy teeth? You can take care of these things and more by taking vitamin D3 and K2. How else can these substances help you? Why are they so important for your body? Reach out and improve your condition today.
 
Fat-soluble vitamins are essential for the optimal functioning of the body. Among the more commonly supplemented compounds in this group are vitamin D and vitamin K. Together, they are responsible for maintaining healthy bones, among other things. Studies have shown that the combination of vitamin K and D can significantly increase total bone mineral density (BMD) [1]. It has also been noted that it is vitamin K2 (MK-7) - due to its high bioavailability - that promotes skeletal quality and strength by influencing, among other things, collagen production and increasing BMD [2]. Vitamin K also contributes to normal blood clotting. Vitamin D helps to maintain healthy teeth and muscles, supports the proper functioning of the immune system, is involved in the process of cell division, and helps to properly utilise calcium and phosphorus in the body.
 
Providing adequate amounts of vitamin D has been proven to increase calcium and phosphorus absorption by approximately 30-40% and 80% respectively. Disorders of calcium and phosphate metabolism negatively affect bone mineralisation, which may increase the risk of osteoporosis or skeletal deformities [3].
 
Vitamin D - due to the fact that it is obtained largely through skin contact with natural sunlight - is commonly referred to as the sunshine vitamin. There are two main types of this compound: vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol, the naturally occurring form of vitamin D3) - and it is the latter that is synthesised by the skin. Vitamin D deficiency is widespread and is estimated to affect up to 50% of the population. This is due, among other things, to a lifestyle that limits exposure to UVB light and a diet poor in fatty fish - vitamin D3 can be provided by eating salmon, mackerel and herring, for example [3].
 
Vitamin K can be divided into phylloquinone (K1) and multiple forms of menaquinones designated MK-4 to MK-13 (K2) [4]. Menaquinone-7 (MK-7) is the best absorbed form of vitamin K2 with proven stability and activity. It is involved in the regulation of calcium metabolism and, unlike K1, is used not only by the liver to support blood clotting, but also by the bones and vascular system. Vitamin K2 can be found in animal and fermented products (e.g. natto) [5].
Vitamin D and vitamin K deficiency contributes to reduced bone mineralisation, which can lead to skeletal deformity and osteoporosis. Cramps and dental deterioration may also occur [3, 4, 6]. A balanced diet and exposure to sunlight are therefore crucial in providing adequate amounts of these substances. Dietary supplements are also helpful.