The Best Vitamin D3 and K2 Supplements to Improve Bone and Heart Health
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You've probably heard of vitamins D and K, but how much do you know about D3 and K2? Vitamin D3 is one of the main types of the "sunshine vitamin" commonly found in vitamin D supplements. Similarly, vitamin K2 is a type of vitamin K. Many studies link D3 and K2 with benefits including better bone health and heart health, and K2 might also help improve blood clotting.
Individually, these two vitamins could bring considerable health benefits. However, additional research suggests that taking vitamins D3 and K2 together in one supplement may be more effective than taking either alone.
In this article, we’ll cover our top picks for the best vitamin D3 and K2 supplements. We’ll also take a look at the health benefits of these dietary supplements, side effects and how to choose the best supplements that combine vitamin D3 and vitamin K2.
This content is meant to be informative, but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen.
Our Picks for Best D3 and K2 Vitamin Supplements:
- Best Overall Vitamin D3 and K2 Supplements: Utzy Naturals Vitamin K2 with D3
- Top-Rated Vitamin D3 and K2 Supplements: Transparent Labs Vitamin D3 with K2
- Best Vitamin D3 and K2 Drops: Cymbiotika Vitamin D3 + K2
- Best Vegan Vitamin D3 and K2 Supplements: Ritual Multivitamin for Men | Ritual Multivitamin for Women
- Best Vitamin D3 and K2 Gummies: Nature Made Vitamin D3 + K2 Gummies
- Best Vitamin D3 and K2 Supplements for Bone Health: Transparent Labs Vitamin D3 with K2
- Best Organic Vitamin D3 and K2 Supplements: NaturesPlus Source of Life Garden Vitamins D3 & K2
- Best Vitamin D3 And K2 Supplements On Amazon: Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2
Best Overall Vitamin D3 and K2 Supplement: Utzy Naturals Vitamin K2 with D3
SI Showcase + Utzy Naturals
Key features:
- Percent of daily value: 625 percent of vitamin D3 and 38 percent of vitamin K2
- Certifications: Third-party tested
- Subscription: Save 15% with 30, 45 or 60 day delivery options
- Best for: Adults who want a D3 and K2 supplement with clinically researched ingredients
- Price per serving: $0.57
If you’re looking for a vitamin D3 supplement with a high dose, Utzy Naturals is one of the best. Utzy’s D3 and K2 supplement has 625 percent of your daily value of vitamin D3 along with 38 percent of your daily value of K2. One thing to note about these daily values is that they are based on the “adequate intake” recommendation. For example, the National Institute of Health recommends that adults ages 19-70 get at least 15 micrograms of vitamin D per day. However, the upper limit recommendation for adults ages 19 and older is 100 micrograms. In that sense, 125 micrograms isn’t as excessive an amount as it may seem.
The K2 used in this formula is a branded form of K2 called MenaQ7. MenaQ7 has over 19 clinical trials, with one in particular showing that a combination supplement of MenaQ7 and vitamin D can reduce calcium build up in arteries by 50 percent when you take at least 32 micrograms of MenaQ7 daily. This supplement has 45 micrograms per dose.
One feature that we love about Utzy Naturals is that each ingredient in their supplements are lab-tested twice, once at Utzy’s in-house lab and again at an unidentified third-party lab. The vitamin D3 and K2 supplement ingredients are tested for purity, heavy metals, microbials, pesticides and strength. Utzy also has a certificate of analysis available on their website with a link to the full lab reports.
What we like:
- Vitamin K2 can help your body absorb D3
- Contains MenaQ7 form of vitamin K2 which may increase bone density and can reduce calcium buildup in your arteries
- Third-party tested
- Ingredients are free of pesticides and heavy metals
What to consider:
- About $0.30 more expensive per serving than most competitors
Top-Rated Vitamin D3 and K2 Supplements: Transparent Labs Vitamin D3 with K2
SI Showcase + Transparent Labs
Key features:
- Percent of daily value: 630 percent of vitamin D3 and 80 percent of vitamin K2
- Certifications: Third-party tested
- Subscription: Subscribe and save, plus free shipping every 30, 45 or 60 days
- Best for: Individuals looking for a potent vitamin D3 and vitamin K2 combination at a good price point
- Price per serving: $0.15 (with subscribe and save)
Transparent Labs' Vitamin D3 with K2 combo delivers a high dose of 5,000 IU of vitamin D. In addition to its role in bone health, vitamin D is also involved in reducing inflammation and supporting the immune system.
A review published in the International Journal of Endocrinology in 2017 shows that a combo supplementation of vitamin D and K may be more effective in improving bone and heart health than if the two were taken alone.
Overall, users rate this supplement 4.7/5, and reviewers give high marks for the higher dose of vitamin D and its price. Some reviewers find the higher dose of vitamin D helpful during times of limited sun exposure, such as in winter or periods spent more indoors. One reviewer says, “I feel this supplement is one of the reasons I'm so rarely sick now and have more energy on a regular basis.”
Related Post: The 9 Best Supplements to Fight Inflammation
What we like:
- Third-party testing by Analytical Resource Laboratories
- Higher dose of vitamin D
- Low-cost
- One-capsule serving
What to consider:
- Higher dose of vitamin D may be more than what some people are looking for
The Best Vitamin D3 and K2 Drops: Cymbiotika Vitamin D3 + K2
SI Showcase + Cymbiotika
Key features:
- Percent of daily value: 625 percent of vitamin D3 and 100 percent of vitamin K2
- Certifications: None listed
- Subscription: Subscribe and save, plus free shipping
- Best for: Individuals who prefer not to swallow pills and want a higher dose of vitamin D3 K2 combo
- Price per serving: $2.31
Cymbiotika’s products are made with high-quality plant-based ingredients and are free of synthetics, GMOs, fillers, chemicals and artificial preservatives. Cymbiotika’s vitamin D3 K2 drops supply 5,000 IU of vitamin D3 sourced from lichen and 120 micrograms of vitamin K2 in the form of menaquinone-7. They also supply 500 micrograms of menaquinone-4, another type of vitamin K2, though little is known about the bioavailability of menaquinone-4.
Additionally, this vitamin D3 and K2 combo is made with selenium, a nutrient that supports various bodily processes, such as thyroid function. These drops also feature Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a naturally occurring compound in the body that acts as an antioxidant. It plays a role in energy production and has been studied for its potential benefits in treating various health issues, including heart disease and migraines.
Cymbiotika’s vitamin D3 and K2 comes in a pump bottle. The product delivers 30 two milliliter-dose servings. The product may be pumped onto a spoon or directly into the mouth to consume. It may also be mixed into a beverage. Reviewers remark on how easy the product is to take due to its pleasant taste and mixability. Some reviewers report a boost in mood, clarity and energy level from taking this product.
Related Post: The 9 Best Vitamin E Supplements
What we like:
- Free of artificial additives
- Plant-based ingredients
- Higher dose of vitamin D3 and vitamin K2
- Liquid formulation for ease of consumption
What to consider:
- Not third-party tested
The Best Vegan Vitamin D3 and K2 Supplements: Ritual Multivitamin for Men | Ritual Multivitamin for Women
Get 25% off your first month of Ritual! Code: SI25
SI Showcase + Ritual
Key features:
- Percent of daily value: 250 percent of vitamin D3 and 75 percent of vitamin K2
- Certifications: Non-GMO Project Verified, third-party tested with USP
- Subscription: Monthly, includes free shipping
- Best for: Adults 18-49, individuals who want an all-in-one vegan vitamin
- Price per serving: $2.20
Top-rated for their daily multivitamins for adults, Ritual’s vitamins are also vegan-friendly. It’s important to note this as individuals following a plant-based diet are among the several groups of people who may not be getting much vitamin D. Ritual’s vitamin uses sustainably harvested lichen for vitamin D3 as opposed to animal products like fish liver and sheep’s wool.
Additionally, the omega-3s in the product are sourced from microalgae instead of fish oil. Ritual’s products are also free of major allergens and gluten-free. To boot, Ritual’s packaging materials are environmentally friendly. Their mailers are crafted from reclaimed newsprint and plant fibers, while their bottles are made entirely from recycled materials.
Related Post: The Best Vegan Vitamins and Supplements
What we like:
- Vegan friendly
- Gluten-free and major allergen free
- Environmentally friendly packaging
What to consider:
- Mint flavor may not be for everyone
The Best Vitamin D3 and K2 Gummies: Nature Made Vitamin D3 + K2 Gummies
SI Showcase + Nature Made
Key features:
- Percent of daily value: 625 percent of vitamin D3 and 83 percent of vitamin K2
- Certifications: none
- Subscription: Subscribe and save, plus free shipping every 30, 45, 60 or 90 days
- Best for: Individuals looking for a high dose of vitamin D3 K2 supplement in gummy form
- Price per serving: $0.76
Nature Made has been producing dietary supplements for over 50 years, and can be found in grocery stores and pharmacies all over the U.S. Their vitamin D3 and K2 combo comes in two daily peach-flavored gummies with 25 servings in a container. The product provides 5,000 IU of vitamin D3 and 100 micrograms of vitamin K2.
Additionally, this chewable supplement contains none of the following: synthetic dyes, artificial flavors, artificial sweeteners or high fructose corn syrup. Nature Made’s vitamin D3 K2 supplement is also gluten-free.
Chewable supplements in general may be preferable for individuals who have difficulty swallowing capsules or pills such as older adults. Although this particular supplement isn’t third-party tested, many of Nature Made’s other products are independently tested and verified by USP.
Related Post: Are Gummy Vitamins Effective?
What we like:
- High dose of vitamin D3 and K2
- No artificial ingredients
- Gummy form is easier to consume than tablets
What to consider:
- Not third-party tested
Best Vitamin D3 and K2 Supplements for Bone Health: Transparent Labs Vitamin D3 with K2
SI Showcase + Transparent Labs
Key features:
- Percent of daily value: 630 percent of vitamin D3 and 80 percent of vitamin K2
- Certifications: Third-party tested
- Subscription: $17.99 with subscribe and save and free shipping every 30, 45 or 60 days
- Best for: Individuals looking for a potent vitamin D3 and vitamin K2 combination at a good price point
- Price per serving: $0.15 per serving with subscribe and save
Given its higher dose of vitamin D3 with vitamin K2, third-party testing and multiple subscribe and save options, Transparent Labs’ supplement is our top pick for vitamin D3 and K2 combo for bone health. As mentioned, many people don’t get enough vitamin D due to factors such as limited sun exposure or medical conditions, which is why adding vitamin D supplements can help to reduce the risk of bone diseases, such as osteoporosis and osteomalacia.
Additionally, many people consume inadequate amounts of vitamin K. And although not all studies demonstrate a correlation, some suggest that increased vitamin K intake is associated with higher bone density and/or a reduced incidence of hip fractures. Reviewers appreciate that Transparent Labs offers both these vitamins essential for bone health in a quality one-capsule serving.
What we like:
- Third-party testing by Analytical Resource Laboratories
- Higher dose of vitamin D
- Low cost
- One capsule serving
What to consider:
- Higher dose of vitamin D may be more than what some people are looking for
The Best Organic Vitamin D3 and K2 Supplements: NaturesPlus Source of Life Garden Vitamins D3 & K2
SI Showcase + NaturesPlus
Key features:
- Percent of daily value: 250 percent of vitamin D3 and 83 percent of vitamin K2
- Certifications: Certified organic by EcoCertSA
- Subscription: Subscribe and save, plus free shipping
- Best for: Individuals looking for an affordable, organic supplement
- Price per serving: $0.26
NaturesPlus Source of Life Garden Vitamins D3 and K2 is made with certified organic whole food ingredients such as parsley, carrot root and spinach. It supplies 2,000 IU of vitamin D sourced from organic food algae and 100 micrograms of vitamin K2.
This vitamin is gluten-free and comes in 60 one-dose capsules. Reviewers give high marks for its quality, simple ingredients and reasonable price. Some say that the size of these capsules is easy to take. One reviewer reports, “I do not have enough vitamin D3, which is why my legs are ‘restless.’ Thanks to this [product], I can sleep peacefully.”
What we like:
- Vegan
- Organic ingredients
- Low-cost
- One-capsule serving
What to consider:
- Not third-party tested
The Best Vitamin D3 And K2 Supplements On Amazon: Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2
SI Showcase + Amazon
Key features:
- Percent of daily value: 625 percent of vitamin D3 and 83 percent of vitamin K2
- Certifications: Non-GMO verified, certified vegan, current Good Manufacturing Compliance (cGMP), third-party tested
- Subscription: Subscribe and save delivery with free shipping
- Best for: Individuals looking for a third-party tested vegan vitamin
- Price per serving: $0.36
Sports Research sources high-quality nutraceuticals for its products, which are made in cGMP-compliant facilities. On the company website’s Track Your Lot feature, you can view the certificate analysis and third-party testing of products purchased.
Sports Research’s vitamin D3 K2 combo delivers 5,000 IU of vitamin D3 sourced from lichen and 100 micrograms of vitamin K2 sourced from chickpeas. These plant-based capsules come in softgel form with turmeric root powder added to the outer shell. The yellow color from the turmeric root powder helps protect the product from damage caused by UV light. This helps keep the active ingredients inside the product effective for longer.
This supplement is certified vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, and free of soy, gelatin and carrageenan. It contains 60 one-dose softgel capsules. Sports Research vitamin D3 K2 combo is rated 4.8/5 stars on Amazon based on over 100,000 ratings. Reviewers report that the softgel capsules are easy to swallow with no aftertaste. Others give high marks for the price for the value. One reviewer reports, “My vitamin D levels increased 100% in the last 3 months [and] my blood pressure has also stabilized during this time.”
What we like:
- Vegan vitamin
- cGMP and third-party tested
- Non-GMO verified
What to consider:
- Higher vitamin D dose may not be for everyone
What Are Vitamin D3 and K2 Supplements?
Like other dietary supplements, vitamin D3 supplements and K2 supplements are products designed to supplement one's daily diet and provide additional nutrients that give the body essential vitamins for proper functioning.
Vitamin D helps with calcium absorption, which is important for bone health while vitamin K supports bone building. There are two forms of vitamin D, vitamin D2 and vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 is produced in the skin after exposure to sunlight, while vitamin D2 is found in certain foods. Vitamin D3 supplements are considered more effective at increasing and maintaining vitamin D levels in the body than vitamin D2. Vitamin D deficiency is linked to several conditions including poor bone health and heart disease.
In addition to its role in bone health, vitamin K is required for proper blood clotting. Vitamin K may also be linked to lower heart calcification (the buildup of calcium in the arteries), which is a risk factor for heart disease. Lack of vitamin K can cause bleeding, weak bones, osteoporosis and higher chances of heart disease. When taken together as a dietary supplement, vitamin D3 and K2 work synergistically to potentially improve bone density and heart health.
Benefits of Combining Vitamins D3 and K2
In general, dietary supplements can be beneficial for people who aren’t able to get all of their necessary nutrients from diet alone, especially for those with dietary restrictions or limited food options. Additionally, certain supplements may have specific health benefits. Specific to vitamin D3 and K2 supplements, the combination of the two nutrients can help support bone and heart health.
A 2017 study refers to the "synergistic interplay" between vitamins D and K in promoting bone and cardiovascular health. The study includes findings from a clinical trial in which participants receiving combined vitamin D3 and K2 supplementation showed increased bone mineral density of the lumbar spine. Over a two-year period, the improvements proved to be significant compared with those of participants who supplemented with vitamin D or vitamin K alone.
However, it's important to note that dietary supplements work best when they're used to support a healthy diet and lifestyle, not to replace them.
Related Post: The Best Vitamins and Supplements to Boost Your Immune System
How Do Vitamins D3 and K2 Work Together?
Vitamin D and vitamin K are involved in specific biological processes that happen to complement each other. D3 and other D vitamins help the body absorb calcium from the intestines and into the bloodstream. K vitamins like K2 help calcium bind to the bones.
In addition to healthier bones, the combined effects of D3 and K2 could also benefit cardiac health. With more calcium attaching to your bones, it's less likely to settle in blood vessels and increase the risk of vascular calcification.
What Are the Side Effects of Vitamin D3 and K2?
While vitamin D3 and K2 supplements are generally safe when taken as directed, there are potential side effects to be aware of. Excessive intake of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia, or high levels of calcium in the blood, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and weakness. Vitamin D can also interfere with certain medications such as cholesterol-lowering and steroid medications. It’s important to note that the safe upper limit for vitamin D is 4,000 IU. However, the Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) also acknowledges “that signs and symptoms of toxicity are unlikely at daily intakes below 250 mcg (10,000 IU).”
The FNB also states that “no adverse effects associated with vitamin K consumption from food or supplements have been reported in humans or animals.” However, vitamin K dietary supplements can interfere with certain medications such as antibiotics and blood-thinning medications, so individuals taking these medications should consult with their healthcare provider before taking vitamin K2 supplements.
It's important to follow recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare professional before adding a new supplement to your wellness routine, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
How To Choose the Best D3 and K2 Vitamin Supplement for You
When choosing dietary supplements like a vitamin D3 and K2 supplement, consider the dosage and form of the vitamins, as well as the quality of the supplement. Look for supplements that provide vitamin D3 in the form of cholecalciferol, as it’s more effective than vitamin D2 in raising and maintaining vitamin D levels in the body.
Additionally, choose a supplement that provides vitamin K2 in the form of menaquinone-7 (MK-7), as this form has been shown to be the most effective in promoting bone and cardiovascular health. It's also important to choose a reputable brand that uses high-quality ingredients and undergoes third-party testing for purity and potency.
What To Avoid in a Vitamin D3 and K2 Supplement
When choosing a vitamin D3 and K2 supplement, it's important to avoid supplements that contain artificial additives and high amounts of fillers. Also, avoid supplements that contain excessive amounts of nutrients, as this can lead to toxicity and other health problems. Additionally, avoid supplements that don’t clearly state the source and form of the nutrients, as well as the quality and purity of the ingredients. Always read the label carefully and do your research before choosing a supplement to ensure you’re getting a safe and effective product.
Who a Vitamin D3 and K2 Supplement Is Best For
A vitamin D3 and K2 supplement may be beneficial for certain groups of people, including the following:
- Individuals who don’t get enough sun exposure
- People with limited dietary intake of vitamin D and K
- Individuals with certain medical problems that affect vitamin D and K absorption
- The elderly who may have a decreased ability to produce and utilize these vitamins
- Individuals who are at risk for osteoporosis or other bone-related conditions
Related Post: Best Multivitamins for Men Over 50 and Best Multivitamins for Women Over 50
Who Should Avoid a Vitamin D3 and K2 Supplement
While a vitamin D3 and K2 supplement can be beneficial for many people, there are certain groups who may need to exercise caution or avoid supplementation altogether. For example, given that vitamin D works closely with calcium, individuals with hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels) may need to avoid vitamin D supplementation. People with blood clotting disorders and on blood thinning medications should avoid vitamin K supplements given that vitamin K promotes blood clotting.
How We Chose the Best D3 and K2 Vitamin Supplements
We chose vitamin D3 and K2 supplements based on high-quality ingredients, transparency in labeling, certifications such as vegan certified or certified good manufacturing practices and third-party testing. In addition, the products selected for this vitamin D3 and K2 supplement guide also take into consideration various lifestyle preferences. Whether you prefer organic or environmentally friendly products, or have a preference for specific supplement forms such as gummies, capsules or liquids, there is product variety on our list.
Vitamin D3 and K2 Supplements FAQs
How long does it take for D3 and K2 to work?
The time it takes for vitamin D3 and K2 supplements to work varies depending on several factors, such as your baseline nutrient status, the dosage, form of the supplement and consistency of consumption. It’s best to work with a healthcare professional who can order lab work and interpret results to see if the supplement is working.
What is the best time to take K2 and D3?
Both vitamins are fat-soluble vitamins, meaning they dissolve in fat and are stored in the body's fatty tissues for future use. So, the best time to take a dietary supplement like vitamin D3 with K2 may be with a meal containing oil or fat such as olive oil, avocado or egg yolk. Ultimately, the best time to take these supplements is when it's convenient and easy to remember, as consistency is key for maintaining adequate vitamin levels.
How often should I take Vitamin D3 and K2?
The frequency of taking a vitamin D and K supplement or any supplement depends on the specific product and dosage, as well as individual needs and health status. It's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended dosage and work with your healthcare provider.
Does a D3 and K2 supplement help with sleep?
A Nutrients 2022 systematic review and meta-analysis concluded that while vitamin D supplementation shows potential in enhancing sleep quality, more research is needed to find its impact on sleep. A 2016 Nutrients article examining dietary patterns found that inadequate intake of certain nutrients—including vitamins D and K—is associated with short sleep duration. However, it’s important to note that supplements should not be relied upon as the sole solution for sleep issues and should be used in conjunction with other lifestyle changes and medical advice if necessary.
Should you take vitamin D3 and K2 on an empty stomach?
It’s generally recommended to take vitamin D and K supplements with food, particularly a meal containing healthy fats, as they are fat-soluble vitamins and require fat for optimal absorption in the body. And it’s always best to follow the dosage instructions on the product label.
Takeaway: Are D3 and K2 Vitamin Supplements Right for You?
Adding a high-quality vitamin D3 and K2 supplement to your wellness routine can have numerous health benefits including optimized bone and heart health. The supplements we chose were selected for their quality ingredients, third-party testing, transparency and certifications. To help you determine if a vitamin D3 and K2 supplement is right for you, consult with a healthcare professional.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
