As we move into the Cold and Flu season, it’s important to review the relationship between Vitamin D3 supplements and the need to also take K2.
Vitamin D helps maintain good calcium levels in the blood needed for strong bones and other body functions. Importantly, the Vitamin D receptors are found in every immune cell of the body and thus play a powerful role in immunity. A recent study found that low levels of Vitamin D increase risk for asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, TB and viral respiratory infections …most notably COVID-19. It’s also protective against hypertension, diabetes, cancer, dementia, and kidney disease.
However, too much Vitamin D may lead to high levels of calcium in the blood. This excess calcium may get deposited in the tissues where it doesn’t belong leading to hardening of the arteries or other problems. Vitamin K2 helps regulate where the excess calcium goes keeping it in the bones. While K2 may be increased through fermented foods, most of us don’t get enough.
Vitamin D levels can be measured, and you should ask your doctor to order a test. Blood levels between 40 to 60 ng./ml. have been shown to be most protective. Most people are well below these levels.
Increasingly, researchers are finding that Vitamin D3, K2 and calcium are needed for good health. They are inexpensive, easy to take, have minimal side effects with huge benefits but they can be dangerous in some conditions. Always speak to your healthcare provider before taking them. If you’re on blood thinners, it’s especially important because K2 supplements may increase blood clotting.
May you be blessed with good health this next Cold/Flu/COVID season.
Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul. 3 john 1:2
References:
Ogasawara et al. “The Effect of 1 Hydroxy Vitamin D Treatment in Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19: A Retrospective Study” Clinical Nutrition, October 2023.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0261561423002790
“What to Know about Vitamin K2 and It’s Health Benefits” Nutrition, Cleveland Clinic, March 9, 2023. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/vitamin-k2/.
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Wake Up Call 911: It’s Time to Reduce your Risk for a Heart Attack and Stroke (2015)
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