How do vitamins K and D work together to provide health benefits?
Vitamin D has been found to support bone heath and a well-functioning cardiovascular system. But to get the greatest results from taking Vitamin D, you also need Vitamin K.
Vitamin D promotes the production of Vitamin K-dependent proteins (VKDPs), which serve essential roles in bone growth and the vascular system. Vitamin K is necessary for carboxylation, a chemical alteration, of two specific VKDPs: osteocalcin and matrix Gla protein (MGP).
According to the International Journal of Endocrinology, carboxylation of MGP helps to mitigate calcium buildup in blood vessels, supporting a healthy cardiovascular system. Osteocalcin carboxylation supports bone density, a key factor in minimizing the likelihood of future bone issues.
Studies have also shown that taking Vitamins D and K together results in lower levels of uncarboxylated osteocalcin and increased bone density. This demonstrates that the Vitamin D-K duo are more effective in supporting bone health than supplementing with Vitamin K alone.
To ensure bioavailability of both Vitamins D and K, your body needs enough of the enzyme lipase to properly assimilate these fat-soluble vitamins. Thankfully, KD Ultra contains it all!
What are the different forms of vitamin K2 in KD Ultra?
Vitamin K2 refers to a group of compounds known scientifically as menaquinones (MKs). Several different forms of Vitamin K2 exist, ranging from MK4 to MK13, and each provides unique health benefits. Think of these similar to the different variations of B vitamins, where each vitamin has a different function within the body and the complete complex is important for optimal health.
The number following the MK refers to the length of the “chain” in its chemical composition (e.g. MK4 is a 4-chain K2). MK4 is most commonly found in the Western diet while high levels of MK7 are found in the Japanese food natto.
KD Ultra includes all three of the currently available supplemental forms of Vitamin K2: MK4, MK6, and MK7.
As if K2 needed to be further complicated, two variations of MK7 (isomers) exist and are known as Trans and Cis. The isomer is basically just the shape of the molecule and impacts the absorbability within the body (among other things). Trans MK7 is what is found in foods and nature, while Cis is not found in nature and may not offer any of the benefits of Trans MK7. KD Ultra contains all-Trans MK7.
Why do I need to take Vitamin D, don’t I get it from the sun?
Although Vitamin D can be obtained naturally through sunlight exposure, several factors make it challenging to get enough from the sun alone. Season, time of day, day length, cloud cover, smog, shade, and geographic region all impact UVB exposure and the potential for Vitamin D production. Age and skin color also impact Vitamin D production. The skin of older adults does not produce as much Vitamin D when exposed to sunlight as skin in younger people. Also, the kidneys are less capable of converting Vitamin D into its active form as people age. Individuals with dark skin have a lower ability to produce Vitamin D from the sun due to higher melanin levels in the skin, which blocks UVB absorption. In addition, due to the risk of skin cancer, daily sunscreen use and protective clothing are recommended by dermatologists, both of which block UVB exposure and limit Vitamin D production.
Does KD Ultra support dental health?
It has been shown that Vitamin K2 plays a key role in the development and maintenance of healthy tooth enamel and the immune response within dentin. Without K2, calcium cannot be adequately processed in our bodies, and that includes both bones and teeth. Additionally, Vitamin D3 aids in the absorption of calcium throughout the body.
Is KD Ultra safe to use in combination with prescription blood-thinning medications?
You should always check with your healthcare provider prior to taking any new dietary supplements in combination with a prescription. However, KD Ultra contains Vitamin K, and since many prescription medications for blood-thinning are designed to block Vitamin K activity, it is imperative you speak with the prescribing physician prior to taking KD Ultra if you are prescribed these types of medications.
Is KD Ultra Kosher?
The formula is Kosher, and a copy of the certification is available by request.
Is KD Ultra vegan friendly?
The formula is vegetarian and vegan in accordance with the guidelines of the AMERICAN VEGETARIAN ASSOCIATION.