Vitamin D
Vitamin D3 is found almost exclusively in animal products, namely meat, dairy and eggs. Lichens also contain vitamin D, as do various fungi. The latter, however, only contain the less effective vitamin D2. Vitamin D is a very peculiar vitamin. In the classical sense it is not a vitamin but rather a pro-hormone.
In contrast to many other vitamins, vitamin D is converted into an important hormone which regulates cell functioning and bodily processes. Almost all bodily cells have special receptors for the vitamin D hormone that are dependent on sufficient supply.
Vitamin D is still the subject of intensive research. New mechanisms of action of this fascinating vitamin are discovered almost every year. To date, the following statements on vitamin D have been approved by the EU (EFSA):
Vitamin D contributes to:
- Normal absorption/utilisation of calcium and phosphorus
- Normal blood calcium levels
- The maintenance of normal bones
- The maintenance of normal muscle function
- The maintenance of normal teeth
- The normal function of the immune system
- Vitamin D has a role in the process of cell division.
Vitamin K2 MK-7
Vitamin K2 MK-7 is today considered by far the most effective form of K2. However, since vitamin K2 molecules occur in a variety chemical structures (the so-called cis–trans isomers of vitamin K2), there are considerable differences in efficacy even between different vitamin K2 MK-7 compounds. It is believed that only the trans forms can be utilised by the body.
Vitamin D and vitamin K2 are cofactors in the regulation of calcium metabolism. Together, the two vitamins form and break down bones as well as the important transport molecules which ensure the correct utilisation of calcium. Sunday Natural Vitamin D3 and K2 MK-7 combine the two nutrients in a ratio that ensures optimal interaction.
Currently, almost all authorities do not consider vitamin K2 separately, but all K vitamins together. Accordingly, the statements released for vitamin K1 currently apply to vitamin K2.
Vitamin K contributes to:
- normal blood clotting
- the maintenance of normal bones