Vitamin D is important for many processes in the body. It is essential for bone health, in part, by aiding in the absorption of calcium, and is also involved in immune function, modulating cell growth, glucose metabolism and reducing inflammation.
Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting, but also supports bone development. Vitamin K exists in two forms, K1 which is found in green leafy vegetables and broccoli, and K2 which is produced by gut bacteria and also found in meat, eggs, dairy products and fermented soya.
Both vitamins are essential, but they work best in supporting bone health when taken together. Vitamin D helps promote the formation of Vitamin K-dependant proteins, which enhance bone production. A 2017 review of published research in concludes that taking Vitamin D and Vitamin K together is particularly beneficial for supporting bone health in post-menopausal women.
Further meta-analyses in 2020 and 2021 found a that combination of Vitamin D and Vitamin K was more effective at increasing bone mineral density than either vitamin on its own, with more favourable results when the form of vitamin K consumed was K2.
Many Vitamin D supplements now come combined with Vitamin K2, and it is definitely worth taking one, especially if you have a family history of osteoporosis, or are post-menopausal. Not all supplements offer value for money - check out the amount of each vitamin included, and chose a reputable brand. Most people in the UK need to take at least 1000iu per day of Vitamin D. Viridian Health do a vegan D3 & K2 supplement, as do Nutri-advanced (in liquid form).
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