Vitamin D3 4000 IU + vitamin K2 100 μg, 60 tablets

Vitamin D is fat-soluble, and the human body can make it in the skin under UVB light. How much it makes depends on the season, skin type, use of sun protection and diet. Vitamin D comes in several forms; in supplements you most often meet D2 (ergocalciferol) and D3 (cholecalciferol).

Vitamin K is fat-soluble too. In nature it occurs as K1 (phylloquinone) and K2 (menaquinone). The K2 group has several forms, for example MK-4 and MK-7. The label of this product names cholecalciferol and menaquinone.

Vitamin D and vitamin K are nutrients for which a supplement label gives an amount and the % NRV. The term “vitamin D” covers several compounds, so it is worth noticing which form and which amount the label states.

The difference between forms of vitamin D matters when you read a label. D2, or ergocalciferol, is usually obtained from yeast or mushrooms, while D3, or cholecalciferol, is the form named in this product. D3 can be produced in different ways, but the label does not describe where the raw material comes from.

For vitamin K, K1 (phylloquinone) is associated with green leafy vegetables, and K2 is menaquinone. K2 is not one substance: the group includes several forms, such as MK-4 and MK-7. This product states menaquinone, but the label does not say which MK form predominates.

This is a tablet, not an oil capsule. One tablet contains 100 µg of vitamin D and 100 µg of vitamin K. The label also lists the bulking agents microcrystalline cellulose and dicalcium phosphate, and the anti-caking agents magnesium salts of fatty acids and silicon dioxide.

Vitamin D occurs naturally in oily fish, liver, egg yolks, and in dairy products or fat spreads fortified with vitamin D. A small amount can be found in mushrooms exposed to UV light. The body can make a large part of its vitamin D in the skin in sunlight, but this varies with season, age, skin colour and everyday habits.

In food, vitamin K is linked mainly with green leafy vegetables such as spinach, cabbage and broccoli, which provide K1. K2 forms are found in fermented foods such as natto, and also in meat, eggs and dairy products. A varied diet contains both vitamins in different amounts, and the dose on the label is one way to fit the product into your day.

The label says: adults take 1 tablet a day with a meal. Vitamin D is convenient to take with a meal that contains fat, for example lunch. If a tablet is easy to forget, tie it to a fixed meal or keep the pack where you can see it, but stay at one tablet a day.

It is advisable to consult a doctor or pharmacist before use. Do not use in case of individual intolerance to any ingredient, or during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. If you take several products containing the same substance, add up the total amount and do not exceed the dose stated on the label.

Keep out of the reach of children. Store in the original pack, in a dry place at room temperature. Do not use a food supplement as a substitute for a complete and balanced diet.

The label states that one tablet contains 100 µg of vitamin D (2000% NRV) and 100 µg of vitamin K (133.3% NRV). NRV is the nutrient reference value. The percentage shows what share of that reference value one tablet provides, not how many tablets to take.

The order of ingredients on a label usually reflects their quantity. Here the bulking agents come first, then cholecalciferol and menaquinone, and then the anti-caking agents. The pack holds 60 tablets with a net weight of 15 g; at one tablet a day that is 60 days.

This product is a practical choice if you want one tablet with D3 and K2. The D3 4000 IU capsules suit you when K2 is not needed. Calcium 400 mg + D3 5 μg is a different formula with calcium and a lower D3 dose.

Do the tablets need to be stored somewhere cool?

No, the label does not require refrigeration. It says to store in the original pack, in a dry place at room temperature. Keep the pack out of the reach of children. If the tablets have changed in appearance or the pack is damaged, check the expiry date before use.

Can vegetarians take this product?

The label does not say the product contains meat, fish or other clearly listed animal-derived ingredients. At the same time, it is not labelled as vegan or vegetarian. If you follow strict rules, ask the seller about the origin of the ingredients before use, or consult a specialist.

Can I take the tablet with coffee?

This product contains no iron, so the practical advice about taking iron products and coffee separately does not apply to it. The tablet should be taken with a meal. If you also take other supplements, follow the instructions for each product and do not exceed the total dose.

What should I do if I miss a daily dose?

If you miss a tablet, continue the next day with one tablet, your usual dose. Do not take two tablets in one day. If you are unsure, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

How long does the product keep after the pack is opened?

The label gives no separate period after opening. It says to store in the original pack, in a dry place at room temperature. Follow the expiry date printed on the pack. If the tablets have changed colour or smell, or have taken up moisture, do not use them any more.

Can the product be taken during pregnancy?

The label says not to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding, consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking any food supplement. The daily dose of this product is one tablet, and it must not be exceeded.