Vitamin D3 deficiency is a widely understood problem. As Vitamin D3 has multiple health benefits, the supplementation is under constant growth. Experts and opinion leaders suggest the officially recommended levels of vitamin D3 may be too low to achieve optimal health outcomes. This is because many studies have found that higher levels of vitamin D3 may be associated with even better health outcomes.In consequence more and more consumers are taking elevated doses of Vitamin D3.
Vitamin D3 stimulates the production of osteoblasts, leading to an increase in bone formation. More osteoblasts means more osteocalcin being produced into the bloodstream. Such case requires proportionally higher amount of Vitamin K2 to activate this protein. High levels of undercarboxylated (inactive) osteocalcin may cause a higher risk of bone loss and fracture.
Similarly a higher intake of vitamin D3 stimulates the production of white blood cells. High level of white blood cells is required to have a proper immune response to an infection or other illness. These additional cells however require more cofactors to be active. Gas6 is a vitamin K2 activated protein that plays a role in regulating white blood cells.
Vitamin K is involved in the synthesis of VKDPs in addition to its role in carboxylation. More vitamin K-dependent proteins (VKDPs) require more regulating cofactors. Vitamin D3 supplementation can increase the expression of the enzyme called gamma-glutamyl carboxylase (GGCX), which is responsible for activating of osteocalcin and Matrix Gla Protein.
Vitamin D3 and K2 is a tightly combined duo. Increasing consumption of one may require higher intake of the other to achieve anticipated, additional benefits.
Calcification of soft tissue is an important factor in aging, as it can contribute to a number of age-related conditions and diseases. Calcification refers to the deposition of calcium in soft tissues such as arteries, cartilage, and tendons, which can cause stiffness, loss of elasticity, and reduced function. These signs of aging can be observed in elderly through changes in physical function and posture.
One of the most well-known examples of calcification in aging is atherosclerosis, which is the calcification of arteries that supply blood to the heart. This can lead to reduced blood flow, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Furthermore a compromised blood flow system is not able to deliver water, oxygen and nutrients to skin cells, making them more prone to aging.Calcification can also occur in other soft tissues, such as tendons and cartilage, which can contribute to joint stiffness and reduced mobility.
Overall, while calcification is a natural process that occurs in the body, excessive calcification can be harmful and contribute to age-related diseases and conditions. Vitamin K2 is the key component of calcification slow down strategy, because it is involved in the regulation of calcium in the body. Specifically, it activates proteins called matrix Gla protein (MGP) and osteocalcin, which are involved in the regulation of calcium metabolism.
Vitamin K2 is all about calcification and calcification is about aging.
About 99% of the mass of the human body is made up of six elements: oxygen, carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, calcium, and phosphorus. Calcium role is to assure we remain active and vigorous. Calcium is the reason why we do not contract and subside. We need calcium to thrive.
Keeping our body’s scaffolding firm and rigid is not easy. Science warn us of a simple supplementation. “The more the better” does not work well here. Excess calcium can not be built into bones and teeth, instead it can sediment in our arteries or soft tissues.
Calcium metabolism is regulated with two vitamins working synergistically. Vitamin D3 triggers the absorption of calcium and its transport from the intestines to the bloodstream. Additionally, vitamin D3 stimulates the activity of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation. Vitamin K2 activates osteocalcin, a protein produced by the osteoblasts. When osteocalcin is activated by vitamin K2, it helps to incorporate calcium into the bone matrix, which makes bones stronger and more resistant to fracture. Calcium absorption and metabolism starts with Vitamin D3 and concludes with the presence of Vitamin K2.
Calcium economy should be under our constant consideration starting from the childhood, when our bones are developing, throughout our active adult life and ultimately during healthy aging.
Osteopenia often is a natural aging process that starts invisibly in our forties. According to the studies almost half of women and almost third of men aged 50 or more suffer from low bone density. There are numerous dietary strategies to help slow down the progression of osteopenia and subsequent osteoporosis.
Due to so called Calcium Paradox, many of doctors recommend non-calcium dietary interventions, most often based on Vitamin D3, which can help slow down the progression of osteopenia by increasing the absorption of calcium from the intestines. Furthermore osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation, require vitamin D3 to produce osteocalcin, a protein that helps to incorporate calcium into the bone matrix. The osteocalcin, before it can be utilised, must go through carboxylation process, which is facilitated by vitamin K2. Finally, both vitamins have anti-inflammatory action that may reduce the risk of bone loss, because chronic inflammation is associated with increased bone resorption and decreased bone formation.
These two vitamins can be combined with other bone health ingredients like potassium, silica, boron to form an innovative dietary innervations for calcium aware consumers.
Vascular aging is a natural part of the aging process and refers to changes that occur in the blood vessels over time. Healthy vascular aging is a strategy that postpones occurrence of varicose veins, stiffening of arteries, reduced blood flow and blood clots. Same measures would help prevent blood vessels near the surface of the skin to become more visible or break, leading to changes in skin colour or texture.
Vitamin K2 is a vital part of healthy vascular aging. Its role is to slow down vascular calcification. Calcified veins are stiff, which increases the pulse-wave velocityand consequently makes our blood pressure go up. On the other side, a proper blood flow can give us a number of benefits. How important for us is to ensure that our muscles are supplied with oxygen and nutrients ? Would our skin age slower if our capillaries keep deliver water and nutrients efficiently ? Finally our brain, does it benefit from a proper bloodstream supply ? Healthy vascular aging strategy is a long term process and should start in our forties to yield benefits later on.
The health of our veins depend not only on the lack of calcification. There is a whole portfolio of healthy dietary interventions that may benefit our cardiovascular system. A common spice, curcuma as well as olive polyphenols have been shown in the studies to reduce inflammation in the veins, whereas Hawthorne fruit and Coenzyme Q10 have vasodilatory effects, which means it can help to relax and widen blood vessels. Another natural enzyme - Nattokinase may help reduce the risk of forming of blood clots. All these ingredients will appeal to consumers looking for healthy vascular aging.
At first glance, drops may appear to the modern consumer as an outdated product, reminiscent of the times of our mothers or even grandmothers. The mainstream trend in dietary supplements is towards products in the form of soft gelatin capsules or tablets with multi-coloured coatings. Such products not only have an attractive appearance, but also offer a precise dose of active substances and portability.
As sales reports from stationary and online pharmacies show, not all consumers like these dosage forms. In the case of vitamin D3 and vitamin K2 supplementation, mothers and elderly people gained recognition for vitamin preparations in the form of oil solutions packaged in various types of glass and plastic bottles topped with droppers. This form, popularly called drops, is the dominant form on the market, next to softgels. It owes its popularity primarily to its convenience of use. Drops are easy to take and can be added to drinks or food, making it a convenient option for people who have difficulty swallowing pills, including babies, juniors and seniors.
Along with convenience, manufacturers are trying to improve dosing accuracy by using increasingly precise droppers. The traditional pipette is being replaced by validated atomising systems and the stability of vitamins is being improved by the use of sealed, disposable containers. The oil solution form can additionally offer better absorption compared to dry forms.
All these advantages clearly demonstrate that “good old” drops can still shine even in the portfolio of the most progressive dietary supplement retailer.
Between the ages of 9 and 18 we all experience so called "bone growth spurt", the time when around 90% of our bone mass is created. During this time, the body is actively building bone tissue and increasing bone density. Parents should ensure adequate intake of nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, vitamin K2, and protein during this time to support demand of bone growth. Other calcium structures including strong teeth and thick nails would benefit at the same time. These structures mimic batteries, when charged properly with calcium ions during the youth, they will serve much longer during the old age.
Studies have shown that Vitamin K2 supplementation can have significant benefits for children. One study found that children who took Vitamin K2 had improved bone health markers, including bone mineral density. Another study showed that children who took Vitamin K2 had lower levels of undercarboxylated osteocalcin, a protein that is associated with poor bone health.
The best form of Vitamin K2 supplement for children is typically gummies or drops, as they are easy to administer. Most likely our kids would appreciate kid-friendly flavours of the supplements and our teenage daughters would thrive for thick and shiny nails.
While healthy skin can be recognised by many factors like smooth texture, even colour, lack of blemishes and irritations, however most cosmetologist would agree that skin elasticity and firmness is the most wanted aspect of skin health and beauty. Consumers in developed countries spend hundreds of dollars annually for anti-wrinkle creams, trying to slow down skin aging, but many of them are not aware what could be a better alternative to the topical remedies.
The elasticity of the skin is due to the presence of a protein fibres called collagen and elastin. Biosynthesis of these fibres requires a combination of oxygen, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and cofactors to be delivered by the bloodstream to the dermis (middle layer of the skin).
The performance of our heart and veins is visible directly on our skin. Investing our attention to healthy vascular aging should bring us superior results to topical use of cosmetics, even before our blood vessels near the surface of the skin become more visible or break, leading to changes in skin colour or texture. Vitamin K2 is an essential factor in the healthy vascular aging strategy. Vitamin K2 helps improve our blood circulation. It has been shown to play a role in preventing the formation of obstructive blood clots by helping to regulate the body's natural clotting mechanisms. It activates a protein called matrix Gla protein (MGP), which is found in the walls of blood vessels and helps to prevent the accumulation of calcium deposits. In addition, it helps prevent high blood pressure, which can also contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, or the build-up of fatty plaques in the walls of arteries.
Our skin is a collagen manufacturing plant. This factory needs smooth, uninterrupted delivery routes, especially as we start to age.
Consumers associate Omega-3 supplementation with lowering blood pressure and blood cholesterol, fighting chronic inflammation and supporting brain structure with DHA.
Vitamin D3 can be added to Omega-3 formulation based on partial synergy between both nutrients. Studies have suggested that supplementation with both vitamin D3 and omega-3 fatty acids may have a greater effect on reducing inflammation and improving cardiovascular health than either nutrient alone.Another, maybe even better fit to Omega-3 supplement is Vitamin K2. Firstly Vitamin K2 is needed to activate MGP, which may help to reduce arterial stiffness and lower blood pressure by preventing blood vessel obstructions with calcium in similar way Omega-3 helps with cholesterol obstruction.Furthermore both nutrients help fight chronic inflammation. Omega-3 has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce the activation of inflammatory signaling pathways in the body. Vitamin K2, on the other hand, helps to regulate the production of pro-inflammatory molecules in the body by inhibiting the activity of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB), a key regulator of the inflammatory response.
Finally, DHA is a major component of the brain, and it plays several important roles in supporting brain function. Vitamin K2 plays a role in the production of sphingolipids, which (similarly to DHA) are important components of brain cell membranes and are involved in cell signaling and neurotransmission.Study from 2013 found that supplementation with vitamin D3 increased the levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the blood and improved markers of cardiovascular health in overweight and obese individuals and another study from 2015 found that supplementation with both vitamin K2 and omega-3 fatty acids improved cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
Vitamin K1 and K2 play important roles in blood clotting and bone health. Both vitamins are involved in the production of blood clotting factors, which is important for wound healing and preventing excessive bleeding. They both are important for bone health. They help to activate a protein called osteocalcin, which is involved in bone mineralization and turnover. This is however where the similarities end.
Vitamin K1 is an abundant nutrient found primarily in green vegetables, whereas Vitamin K2 is a complex molecule, very scarce in a modern diet. Vitamin K1 is primarily absorbed and stored in the liver, where it is used to produce blood-clotting proteins. Vitamin K2 is absorbed in the small intestine and is then transported to various tissues via our bloodstream. As a consequence or further reach and longer half-life in the body, the health impact of vitamin K2 is incomparable to the impact of Vitamin K1.
Vitamin K is said to be an omnipotent vitamin – activating up to 20 vitamin K-dependent proteins (VKDPs), which regulate various known and yet unknown physiological processes.
Vitamin K2 has been shown in various studies to have its role in bone health, risk reduction of cardiovascular diseases, dental health, insulin sensitivity, reduction of inflammation, cognitive functions, improvement of collagen production, promotion of healthy ovulation, support of immune function.
Although some indications require much more clinical data for their substantiation, the mass of evidence outweighs the balance in favour of vitamin K2.
Vitamin D3 with vitamin K2 supplementation is the most affordable and valuable dietary intervention to support the balance of our organism. Vitamin D3 has a dominant role in orchestrating our immune system response. It activates various white blood cells, such as macrophages, dendritic cells, T and B lymphocytes, which are important in the early and later stages of our immune response.
The role of Vitamin K2 in immune response is now under scrutiny of researchers. In a study published in 2010, researchers investigated the effects of Vitamin K2 supplementation on the immune system of patients with viral liver cirrhosis. The study found that Vitamin K2 supplementation improved immune function in these patients, including an increase in the number of circulating white blood cells and a decrease in the levels of a pro-inflammatory marker called tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). In another study published in 2018, researchers found that Vitamin K2 supplementation improved markers of immune function, including an increase in the number of circulating lymphocytes and an increase in the production of a type of white blood cell called natural killer (NK) cells. Additionally, in a small study published in 2020 individuals with COVID-19 who had low levels of Vitamin K were more likely to have severe respiratory symptoms and require ventilation.
Finally, both vitamins have strong anti-inflammatory effect. Chronic inflammation have negative effects on the immune system and can contribute to the development and progression of chronic diseases. It leads to the dysfunction of white blood cells, such as T and B lymphocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. Chronic inflammation can also lead to an overactive immune response, which can contribute to autoimmune disorders, allergies, and other chronic diseases.
Vitamin K2 can improve joint health in several ways: Supports cartilage health: Vitamin K2 helps to activate the protein osteocalcin, which is involved in the formation and maintenance of cartilage in joints. This can help to reduce the risk of cartilage degradation and improve joint health. Regulates calcium metabolism: Vitamin K2 helps to regulate calcium metabolism in the body, directing calcium to the bones where it is needed and away from soft tissues, including joints.
Excess calcium in the soft tissues can lead to calcification and joint damage, so Vitamin K2 can help to maintain healthy joint function. Reduces inflammation: Vitamin K2 has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to reduce joint pain and inflammation. This can improve joint mobility and flexibility and help to reduce the risk of joint damage and degeneration. Supports overall joint health: Vitamin K2 helps to maintain overall joint health by supporting the formation and maintenance of strong, healthy bones and reducing the risk of joint damage and degeneration
It is important to speak to a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation regimen to determine the appropriate dosages and ensure that it is safe for you. Additionally, Vitamin K2 should be used in combination with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and other lifestyle changes to achieve the best results for joint health.
Combining silica supplementation with Vitamin K2 can provide numerous benefits for overall health and wellness, particularly in the areas of skin health, joint health, and bone health. Silica is a mineral that is found in the body and is important for the formation and maintenance of healthy bones, skin, hair, and nails. It is involved in the formation of collagen, a structural protein that provides support and elasticity to connective tissue.
Vitamin K2, on the other hand, helps to regulate calcium metabolism and support healthy bones by directing calcium to the bones where it is needed. It also supports heart health by reducing the risk of plaque formation in the arteries.When silica and Vitamin K2 are taken together, they can provide a synergistic effect, amplifying each other's benefits. Silica can help to provide the building blocks for healthy bones, skin, hair, and nails, while Vitamin K2 helps to ensure that calcium is properly deposited in these structures. This combined effect can help to improve bone density, skin elasticity, and joint health, while also reducing the risk of fractures and supporting heart health.Silica is considered to be a better supplement for strong bones than calcium because it is involved in the formation and maintenance of bones, as well as other connective tissues, while calcium is primarily associated with bone health. Additionally, silica has been shown to be effective at improving bone density and reducing the risk of fractures, even in people who have low calcium levels.
It is important to note that excessive calcium supplementation can increase the risk of kidney stones and may interfere with the absorption of other minerals such as iron and zinc. Additionally, high levels of calcium in the bloodstream can lead to calcification of soft tissues and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
V0max is a measure of an individual's aerobic capacity, or the maximum amount of oxygen they can useduring exercise. Adequate Vitamin D3 levels have been shown to improve V0max inseveral studies, as Vitamin D3 plays a role in muscle function and strength,which can enhance athletic performance.
Low Vitamin D3 levels have also been linked to decreased V0max in athletes. Vitamin K2 has also been shown to improve V0max in some studies. One study found that Vitamin K2 supplementation improved physical performance, including aerobic capacity, intrained athletes.
In conclusion, there is evidence to suggest a link between V0max and both Vitamin D3 and Vitamin K2, with adequate levels of both vitamins having the potential to improve aerobic capacity and athletic performance. However, as with any supplement regimen, it is always best to consult with a professional before starting any new supplement regimen
Liposomal formulations of Vitamin D3 and Vitamin K2 are believed to be better than standard formulations for several reasons: Enhanced Absorption: Liposomes are tiny lipid-based particles that encapsulate the active ingredients, such as Vitamin D3 and Vitamin K2.
This helps to improve their bio availability, as the liposomes protect the active ingredients from degradation and enhance their absorption into the bloodstream. Increased Stability: Liposomal formulations are more stable than standard formulations, reducing the risk of degradation and ensuring that the active ingredients remain intact andeffective. Better tolerability: Liposomal formulations are generally better tolerated than standard formulations, as they are less likely to cause stomach upset or other side effects.
Longer shelf-life: Liposomal formulations have a longer shelf-life than standard formulations, making them a more convenient and cost-effective option for those looking to supplement with Vitamin D3 and Vitamin K2.
Vitamin D3 and K2 have both been shown to play important roles in brain functioning and brain development. Vitamin D3 is important for brain health as it regulates the expression of genes involved in brain development, and has been linked to improved cognitive function and reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's
Vitamin K2, on the other hand, plays a role in the development and maintenance of the brain's neural networks. It is also involved in the production of sphingolipids, which are important for the proper functioning of the nervous system. Studies have shown that Vitamin D3 and K2 supplementation can lead to improved brain function, including improved memory, attention, and executive function. For example, a study published in the journal "Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders" found that supplementing with Vitamin D3 and K2 improved memory performance in healthy elderly individuals. Additionally, Vitamin D3 and K2 have been found to be beneficial in the treatment of neurological conditions such as depression, ADHD, and schizophrenia. For example, a study published in the "Journal of Clinical Psychiatry" found that Vitamin D3 supplementation was effective in reducing symptoms of depression.
In conclusion, Vitamin D3 and K2 play important roles in brain functioning and brain development, and supplementation with these vitamins has been shown to have positive effects on cognitive function and the treatment of neurological conditions. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Vitamin K2 is increasingly being used in cosmetics due to its potential benefits forthe skin. Vitamin K2 is thought to be beneficial for the skin due to its ability to regulate calcium metabolism and support the production of healthy skin cells. Topical application of Vitamin K2 is feasible and can be absorbed by the skin, eading to potential skin benefits.
Vitamin K2 has been shown to improve skin elasticity, reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness under the eyes, and improve the overall health and appearance of the skin several popular cosmetics use Vitamin K2, including creams, serums, and eye gels. Some of the most popular cosmetic brands that use Vitamin K2 in their products include Murad, PCA Skin, and Olayn conclusion, Vitamin K2 is beneficial for the skin and can be applied topically for potential skin benefits. The tooical application of Vitamin K2 is feasible and canead to improved skin health and appearance. A variety of cosmetic brands now offer products that contain Vitamin K2, making it easier for consumers to incorporate this nutrient into their skin care routine.
Vitamin K2 is often considered to be a better choice than Vitamin K1 in infant modified formulas because of its superior ability to promote proper bone health. Unlike Vitamin K1, which is primarily involved in blood clotting, Vitamin K2 plays a key role in the transport and utilization of calcium in the body.
Studies have shown that Vitamin K2 is more effective than Vitamin K1 in activating proteins that regulate the deposit of calcium in bones. Vitamin K2 also helps prevent the buildup of calcium in soft tissues like the arteries, which can lead to cardiovascular problems. Additionally, Vitamin K2 is stored in the body longer than Vitamin K1, providing a more sustained source of the nutrient. This is important in infants who may not be consuming a balanced diet.
While both vitamins are important, Vitamin K2 is considered to be a better choice for infant modified formulas as it has a more significant impact on bone health and provides a longer-lasting source of the nutrient. As always, it is best to consult with a pediatrician before making any changes to your infant's diet or starting any new supplements.