Vitamin D3 & K2

We are very excited to introduce a brand new product from our partners BioCare. Nutrisorb® D3 & K2, a liquid vegan vitamin D3 and K2 for bone and immune support. After many requests from our customers, and a demand for our excellent liquid products, it’s finally landed on our shelves.

Vitamin D3 supports calcium absorption and immunity, with vitamin K2 to support healthy bone formation.

WHAT’S SO SPECIAL ABOUT IT?

• Clinically effective - vitamin D3 supports calcium absorption and immunity, with vitamin K2 to support healthy bone formation.
• Optimum support - optimally absorbed and high potency, providing 1000iu vitamin D3, and 75mcg K2 as the most bioavailable MK-7 (menaquinone) form.
• Pure - Soya-free vitamin K2, with vegan vitamin D3 (sourced from lichen), in a simple, hypoallergenic oil base of medium chain triglycerides.
• Flexible - only use what you need, easily mixed into liquids or under the tongue, and convenient to use on the go. Especially suited to individuals who have difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules, and those with digestive and absorption difficulties.
• Suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
• 83 days supply at 6 drops per day.

VITAMIN D & K – KEY FACTS

Vitamin D is a family of fat-soluble, cholesterol-like substances called secosteroids.

• Most vitamin D is made in the skin through light exposure and only small amounts are obtained from dietary sources (oily fish, meat, dairy products and eggs).
• It has far reaching benefits including helping to maintain normal bones, teeth, immunity, and muscle function, and also playing a role in cell division.
• Vitamin D deficiency is linked to an increased risk of infection, allergy,  and autoimmunity to name just a few associated health risks.
• Some of us also carry variants of the gene which codes for the Vitamin D Receptor (VDR), which can make it harder for vitamin D to bind to it and then carry out its multitude of different actions within cells.

Vitamin K exists in two forms: Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) found in plants, mainly broccoli, spinach, parsley, and cabbage. Vitamin K2 is a family of compounds called menaquinones (MK). There are a number of types ranging from MK-1-MK-14.

• Vitamin K2 is synthesised by certain gut bacteria and also naturally occurs in foods such as butter, cow liver, chicken, egg yolks, fermented soy bean products and some cheeses.
• The MK-7 form is rarely found in diets – the best source is a type of Japanese fermented soya product called natto.
• In comparison to vitamin K1, vitamin K2 MK-7 has a very long half-life, resulting in much more stable blood levels (7- to 8-fold higher), if used over a longer period.
• Vitamin K contributes to normal blood clotting. Note that it is not suitable for people taking anti-coagulant medication.
• It also contributes to the maintenance of normal bones.
• Vitamin K deficiency is linked to low bone mass density, osteopenia and higher fracture risk.
• Some individuals carry a variant of the gene that produces an enzyme responsible for the conversion of vitamin K to its active form in the body (VKORC1 gene). This may lead to reduced activity of this enzyme, so some people may have higher needs for vitamin K.

DO YOU NEED EXTRA D3 & K2?

Insufficient levels of both nutrients are quite common. In fact, vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency are known to be widespread in the general population across Europe. In addition, modern lifestyles mean we often spend a lot of time indoors, use sunscreen or wear clothes which prevent sunlight exposure. Groups at particular risk of deficiency include individuals with dark skin, those who cover skin or use sunscreen when outside, the elderly, obese, and vegetarians and vegans, and those with inflammatory bowel diseases.

In turn, vitamin K intake is also often insufficient but many of us, including health professionals, may not be aware of it. Low levels of vitamin K are surprisingly prevalent. The daily recommended intake is 75µg, however an American survey revealed that about 50% of Americans consumed less than the recommended amount. The authors of this review further suggested that the optimum level is 90 µg for women and 120 µg for men.