Heart Disease: Top Killer in Malaysia
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Malaysia. The most common type, coronary artery disease (CAD), is caused by plaque building up in the walls of arteries that supply blood to the heart. Plaque consists of fats, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances. Over time, it can narrow and harden arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart. Severe cases may result in a heart attack, stroke, or even death.
How Do Vitamins K2 & D3 Help?
Emerging research highlights the synergistic link between vitamins K2 and D3 in regulating calcium deposition in the bones and out of the arteries, for lifelong bone and heart health.
a) Strengthen the bones: Vitamin D3 increases calcium absorption from the intestines and helps maintain healthy calcium levels in the blood. Vitamin K2 then plays a key role in directing that calcium into the bones where it is needed. It activates osteocalcin, a protein that supports calcium binding to the bone structure. This synergy ensures calcium is effectively deposited into the bones instead of soft tissues, helping maintain strong bone density and reducing the risk of fractures as we age.
b) Protects the heart: Vitamins D3 and K2 also work together to support heart and artery health. Vitamin K2 activates matrix GLA protein (MGP), which binds to excess calcium in the bloodstream. This helps prevent calcium from building up in the arteries, which can lead to arterial hardening and reduced flexibility. By keeping calcium out of the arteries and guiding it to the bones, the combination of D3 and K2 helps support smooth blood flow and protect long-term
Why Choose Vitamins K2 & D3?
For optimal health benefits, look out for a formulation made with a combination of high-strength vitamins K2 and D3.
Vitamins K1 and K2 may sound similar, but they act differently in the body.
| Vitamin K2 (menaquinone) | Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) |
| Synthesised by gut flora and found in fermented foods | Found in green leafy vegetables, dairy products and vegetable oils. |
| Vitamin K2 in the form of MK-7 has been shown to be a bioactive compound in regulating osteoporosis, atherosclerosis and inflammatory diseases. | Primarily involved in the process of blood coagulation in the liver. |
Vitamin D3 is the preferred form of vitamin D because it is the same type that the body naturally produces from sunlight.
| Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) | Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) |
| Made by the skin upon sun exposure; found in fatty fish, liver, egg yolks, etc. | Made from mushrooms and fortified foods. |
| Effectively raises vitamin D levels in the blood for a longer period | Inferior in raising vitamin D levels in the blood. |
Support Your Heart and Bones
Vitamins K2 and D3 complement each other, helping to strengthen bones and protect the heart. Ensuring adequate intake of both vitamins can support lifelong skeletal and cardiovascular health.
