vitamin-k2
Vitamin K2 and calcium: the combination at a glance
Futures Nutrition Editorial Team · 7 February 2022
Vitamin K2 and calcium: the combination at a glance
10 February 2022
Are there side effects to taking vitamin D3, K2 and calcium at the same time? Yes, combining these vitamins with calcium can lead to a range of complaints.
As a rule this combination is used to contribute to a normal supply of calcium to the body. A calcium deficiency results from a diet low in calcium-containing foods. Vitamin D contributes to normal absorption and utilisation of calcium and phosphorus, while calcium contributes to the maintenance of normal bones. Sometimes, however, the combination causes side effects.
What are the side effects of vitamin D3, K2 and calcium?
The reported side effects of vitamin D3, K2 and calcium are set out below.
- Nausea
Taking vitamin D3, K2 and calcium together can cause nausea: the supplement can irritate the stomach, which is why retching or vomiting may follow use.
- Constipation
One of the main side effects of vitamin and mineral supplements is constipation. Taking vitamin D3, K2 and calcium together can make bowel movements more difficult.
- Muscle weakness
Excessive intake of vitamin D3, K2 and calcium can lead to muscle weakness.
- Thirst
People starting on this combination may feel excessive thirst, because it can lead to dehydration.
- More frequent urination
Taking vitamin D3, K2 and calcium can increase urine production. Urinating too frequently in turn contributes to dehydration.
- Confusion
Taking too much vitamin D3 and K2 can lead to toxicity: the calcium level rises above the recommended value, which can cause a confused state.
- Lack of energy
An overdose of vitamin D3, K2 and calcium can cause tiredness or a low energy level. With an excess, people feel very fatigued.
- Irregular heartbeat
Irregular heartbeat is among the main side effects. Too much vitamin D3, K2 and calcium can increase the heart rate. A rise in heart rate also raises blood pressure, affects blood sugar levels and can make breathing more difficult.
- Severe headaches
The toxicity of this combination can cause severe headaches in people who take it daily.
- Dry mouth
Overdosing on these supplements is accompanied by dehydration of the body — which is why the mouth becomes dry.
- Metallic taste in the mouth
Taking these supplements together can cause a metallic taste in the mouth.
Combining these vitamins with calcium can therefore lead to various side effects.
How can the side effects of vitamin D3, K2 and calcium be avoided?
A few sensible precautions help.
This combination of minerals and vitamins is taken by mouth.
If your product contains calcium citrate, you can also take it without food. Beyond that, stick to the recommended dose only, since an overdose can cause serious side effects. Before taking supplements, ask your doctor about safety.
If you take this supplement in liquid form, measure the dose properly using the dosing device provided, a measuring spoon or a pipette. Experts advise against using a household spoon, to avoid measuring errors.
If you take this supplement in chewable form, chew it slowly and thoroughly. If you take it as a capsule, swallow the capsule carefully.
Experts advise against splitting tablets that have no score line, as this could intensify side effects.
A common question is which magnesium to take alongside vitamin D3, K2 and calcium: taking magnesium can help limit side effects.
Who should not use this combination of supplements?
This combination is used by many people, but it can cause problems for those who already have certain conditions, such as:
- Kidney problems
- Heart problems
- Cancer
- High calcium levels
- Circulatory problems
- Parathyroid disorders
What do vitamin D3, K2 and calcium products do?
Vitamin D3, K2 and calcium complement one another in their functions. Vitamin D contributes to normal absorption and utilisation of calcium and phosphorus, while calcium and vitamin K contribute to the maintenance of normal bones. Vitamin D also contributes to the maintenance of normal muscle function.
In addition, vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system and has a role in the process of cell division.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that vitamin D3, K2 and calcium perform important functions in the body, but they can also have side effects. Using them incorrectly or taking an extra dose will bring those side effects on: fatigue, nausea, heartburn, a racing heart, breathing difficulties, constipation, headaches, extreme thirst, frequent urination and more. To avoid all of these, use this combination correctly and take only the recommended amount.