VITAMIN D AND K: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THIS DUO

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 VITAMIN D AND K: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THIS DUO






Vitamin D and vitamin K are essential nutrients that play key roles in maintaining human health, particularly bone and cardiovascular health. Each vitamin has a distinct function, but recent research suggests their combined effects are significant.

Vitamin D is most recognized for its impact on calcium absorption and bone health. Not getting enough vitamin D can lead to weaker bones, a higher risk of fractures, and an increased likelihood of cardiovascular disease. This deficiency is widespread and affects people of all ages worldwide. Supplementing with vitamin D—often together with calcium—has been shown to reduce the rate of fractures, especially in postmenopausal women at greater risk of rapid bone loss (The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition; Proceedings of the Nutrition Society).

Vitamin K is crucial for both blood clotting and bone health. In the context of bones, vitamin K activates proteins that help regulate where calcium goes in the body, ensuring it strengthens bones instead of accumulating elsewhere. Without enough vitamin K, people face a greater risk of fractures and bleeding disorders, since it’s necessary for proper blood clotting. A deficiency can cause severe bleeding in newborns unless supplemented right after birth (Proceedings of the Nutrition Society; Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health).

What’s especially significant is how these two vitamins work together. Vitamin D boosts calcium absorption from the diet, but vitamin K ensures that this calcium is deposited in bones, not arteries. Suppose someone has high levels of vitamin D but is low in vitamin K.  In that case, there’s a danger that calcium might build up in blood vessels, leading to vascular calcification, which can harm cardiovascular health (Nutrients). Research suggests that having adequate levels of both vitamins strengthens bones and protects the heart. The two together may have a greater effect than either alone (International Journal of Endocrinology).

In summary, vitamin D is vital for absorbing calcium and preserving bone mass, while vitamin K enables the body to use that calcium correctly and prevents harmful deposits in arteries. Deficiencies in either vitamin can lead to osteoporosis and other health issues. Getting enough of both—through diet or supplements—can make a significant difference, especially for those at risk of bone loss or cardiovascular disease (Nutrients; International Journal of Endocrinology).

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