vitamin k2 & d3 together has been shown to offer synergistic benefits, particularly for bone and cardiovascular health, which are critical areas of concern for menopausal women.
Synergistic Benefits for Bone Health
Calcium Utilisation and Bone Density:
Vitamin D3 enhances calcium absorption from the gut, ensuring that adequate calcium is available in the bloodstream for bone formation: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2023.1211896/full
Vitamin K2, specifically menaquinone-7 (MK-7), activates osteocalcin, a protein that binds calcium to the bone matrix, effectively directing calcium to the bones and preventing it from depositing in soft tissues and arteries.
Cardiovascular Health
Prevention of Vascular Calcification:
Vitamin K2 plays a crucial role in preventing the calcification of arteries. It activates matrix Gla-protein (MGP), which inhibits the deposition of calcium in the vascular walls, thereby reducing arterial stiffness and improving cardiovascular health.
A study involving post-menopausal women demonstrated that those who took K2 supplements showed significant reductions in vascular stiffness and improvements in blood pressure and arterial health markers: https://www.nutraceuticalbusinessreview.com/news/article_page/Study_reveals_vitamin_that_benefits_cardiovascular_health_in_post-menopausal_women/211015
Enhanced Effectiveness Together
Clinical Evidence of Combined Supplementation:
Research indicates that the combined supplementation of vitamins D3 and K2 is more effective in increasing bone mineral density and improving bone strength compared to taking either vitamin alone. This is particularly important for post-menopausal women, who are at increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
Studies also suggest that the combination helps maintain cardiovascular health by preventing the inappropriate calcification of arteries while ensuring calcium is used effectively for bone health.
Conclusion
The combined supplementation of vitamins D3 and K2 offers a holistic approach to maintaining bone and cardiovascular health, especially in menopausal women. These vitamins work together to optimise calcium metabolism, enhance bone density, and protect against vascular calcification, providing a comprehensive strategy to address the health challenges associated with menopause.