Dr. Berg Recommends Vitamin D3 Paired with Vitamin K2
Dr. Eric Berg, a chiropractor and health educator known for his focus on ketogenic diets and natural health, strongly advocates for supplementing with Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). He asserts that it is significantly more effective at raising and maintaining serum vitamin D levels compared to the less potent Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol). However, his recommendation doesn't stop there. A cornerstone of his approach is the synergistic relationship between Vitamin D3 and Vitamin K2.
The rationale behind this combination is rooted in calcium metabolism. While Vitamin D3 boosts the intestinal absorption of calcium, Vitamin K2 is necessary to direct that calcium to the correct places within the body, specifically into the bones and teeth. Without sufficient Vitamin K2, the risk of calcium accumulating in soft tissues, such as the arteries, increases significantly, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Therefore, Dr. Berg emphasizes that supplementing with D3 alone can be a potential health risk without the balancing action of K2.
The Importance of a Balanced D3 and K2 Ratio
For those choosing to supplement, Dr. Berg highlights the importance of an ideal ratio between Vitamin D3 and K2. He suggests a balanced ratio of 10 mcg of Vitamin K2 for every 1000 IU of Vitamin D3. His own formulations reflect this, offering products with different potencies, such as 5000 IU of D3 with 50 mcg of K2, or 10,000 IU of D3 with 100 mcg of K2. This careful balancing act is designed to prevent unintended consequences from over-absorption of calcium promoted by high-dose D3 supplementation alone.
Maximizing Absorption: Beyond D3 and K2
Dr. Berg's recommendations go further by addressing the absorption of these fat-soluble vitamins. He includes additional co-factors in his proprietary formulas to enhance bioavailability, particularly for individuals with digestive issues or those who are overweight. These absorption-enhancing ingredients include:
- Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCT) Oil: This healthy fat source improves the solubility of vitamins D3 and K2, promoting more efficient absorption into the bloodstream.
- Purified Bile Salts (Ox Bile): Bile salts aid in the emulsification of fats in the digestive tract, which is crucial for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins.
- Magnesium and Zinc: These essential minerals act as cofactors, helping the body properly utilize and activate the vitamins once they are absorbed.
The Formulations: D3 and K2 Combined
Dr. Berg provides various supplemental options that combine the key ingredients he recommends. These products are often branded with their potency levels, offering choices for different individual needs. Here is a breakdown of his typical product formulations:
-
Standard Formulation (5000 IU):
- 5000 IU Vitamin D3 (as cholecalciferol)
- 50 mcg Vitamin K2 (as menaquinone-7, MK-7)
- Additional co-factors for enhanced absorption
-
Maximum Strength Formulation (10,000 IU):
- 10,000 IU Vitamin D3 (as cholecalciferol)
- 100 mcg Vitamin K2 (as menaquinone-7, MK-7)
- Includes absorption boosters like MCT oil and bile salts
These combined products simplify the supplementation process and ensure the proper balance of synergistic nutrients, aligning with Dr. Berg's holistic health philosophy.
Comparison of Recommended Vitamin D Supplements
| Feature | Dr. Berg's D3 & K2 Supplement | Standard Vitamin D2 Supplement |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Vitamin D Form | D3 (cholecalciferol) | D2 (ergocalciferol) |
| Potency for Raising Levels | Significantly more effective | Less potent and effective |
| Inclusion of Vitamin K2 | Yes, specifically MK-7 | Typically absent |
| Absorption Enhancers | Often includes MCT oil, ox bile | Generally not included |
| Support for Calcium Management | Full calcium regulation (absorption and direction) | Primarily focuses on absorption only |
| Risk of Arterial Calcification | Lower risk due to K2 presence | Higher risk with high doses due to calcium imbalance |
Conclusion
In conclusion, what type of vitamin D does Dr. Berg recommend is not simply D3, but a comprehensive approach centered on a specific formulation. He consistently advises the use of Vitamin D3, deeming it superior to D2 for raising blood levels. This D3 should be taken in combination with Vitamin K2 (MK-7) to ensure proper calcium utilization and prevent cardiovascular complications. Furthermore, his products often contain specialized ingredients like MCT oil and ox bile to enhance the absorption and overall effectiveness of these fat-soluble vitamins, making his recommendation a multi-faceted strategy for optimal health.
Blood Testing is Crucial
Before beginning any high-dose supplementation, consulting a healthcare provider and obtaining a blood test to determine your baseline vitamin D status is highly recommended. This ensures an appropriate and safe dosage tailored to your individual needs.
Outbound Link
For more information on the official Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for Vitamin D, you can refer to the National Institutes of Health [link_to_nih_article].
