Vegan Vitamin D3+K2 – Plant-Based Formula from Lichens & Natto for Bone and Immune Health
This product contains 25mcg (1000 IU) of vegan vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) sourced from lichens and 120mcg of vitamin K2 as menaquinone-7 (MK-7) sourced from natto (fermented soybeans). This fully plant-based formula provides the synergistic benefits of vitamins D3 and K2 working together to support calcium absorption, bone mineralization, and proper calcium distribution. Vitamin D3 supports immune system function and bone health, while vitamin K2 MK-7 directs calcium to bones and teeth rather than soft tissues. Ideal for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone seeking clean, non-animal sources of these essential vitamins. Health Canada approved (NPN 80134585). Made in Canada. 120 vegan capsules.
Key Benefits
• Supports bone and teeth health
• Supports immune system function
• Supports calcium absorption and utilization
• Directs calcium to bones, not soft tissues
• 25mcg (1000 IU) vitamin D3 per capsule
• 120mcg vitamin K2 MK-7 per capsule
• 100% plant-based and vegan
• D3 from lichens (not lanolin)
• K2 MK-7 from natto (fermented soybeans)
• Health Canada approved (NPN 80134585)
• Made in Canada
• 120 vegan capsules
What Are Vitamins D3 and K2?
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is the active form of vitamin D that the body produces when skin is exposed to sunlight. It plays a critical role in calcium absorption, bone health, and immune function. Vitamin K2 (menaquinone) is a fat-soluble vitamin that activates proteins responsible for directing calcium to bones and teeth while preventing calcium deposits in soft tissues like arteries. Together, these vitamins work synergistically for optimal bone and cardiovascular health.
Quick Facts
• Vitamin D3: 25 mcg (1000 IU)
• Vitamin K2: 120 mcg (as MK-7)
• D3 source: Lichens (plant-based)
• K2 source: Natto (fermented soybeans)
• Form: Vegan capsules
• Capsules per bottle: 120
• Health Canada NPN: 80134585
• 100% vegan: Yes
• Made in: Canada
Vitamin D3 vs. D2: Why D3 Is Superior
Not all vitamin D is created equal. Understanding the difference between D3 and D2 is important:
Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol): This is the form of vitamin D produced in human skin when exposed to UVB sunlight. It's the natural, bioidentical form that the body recognizes and uses most efficiently. D3 is more potent and longer-lasting in the body.
Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol): This form is produced by plants and fungi when exposed to UV light. While D2 can raise vitamin D levels, it's less effective than D3 and has a shorter duration of action in the body.
Potency Difference: Research shows that vitamin D3 is approximately 87% more potent than D2 at raising and maintaining blood levels of vitamin D. D3 also has a longer half-life, meaning it stays active in the body longer.
Bioavailability: D3 binds more effectively to vitamin D binding proteins in the blood, resulting in better absorption and utilization by the body.
Why This Formula Uses D3: This product provides true vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) from lichens, not the less effective D2. You get the superior potency and bioavailability of D3 in a 100% vegan form.
Vegan D3 Advantage: Traditionally, vegans had to settle for D2 because D3 was only available from animal sources (lanolin). Lichen-derived D3 provides vegans with the superior D3 form without animal ingredients.
Why Vegan D3 from Lichens?
Most vitamin D3 supplements are derived from lanolin (sheep's wool), making them unsuitable for vegans. This formula uses vitamin D3 extracted from lichens, a unique plant-based source:
What Are Lichens? Lichens are composite organisms formed from algae and fungi living in symbiosis. Certain lichen species naturally produce vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), the same form produced in human skin from sunlight.
True Vitamin D3: Lichen-derived D3 is cholecalciferol, the active form of vitamin D, not the less effective D2 (ergocalciferol) found in some plant sources.
Vegan-Friendly: Lichen D3 provides the benefits of vitamin D3 without animal-derived ingredients, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Clean Source: Lichens are sustainably harvested and provide a pure, clean source of vitamin D3.
Why K2 MK-7 from Natto?
Vitamin K2 exists in several forms, with MK-7 being the most bioavailable and longest-lasting:
What Is Natto? Natto is a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. The fermentation process produces menaquinone-7 (MK-7), the most bioavailable form of vitamin K2.
MK-7 vs. MK-4: MK-7 has a longer half-life in the body (72 hours) compared to MK-4 (1 hour), providing more sustained vitamin K2 activity throughout the day.
Superior Bioavailability: MK-7 is better absorbed and remains active in the body longer than other forms of vitamin K2.
Plant-Based: Natto-derived K2 MK-7 is 100% plant-based, suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
How Vitamin D3 and K2 Work Together: The Perfect Partnership
Vitamins D3 and K2 have a synergistic relationship that makes them more effective together than separately:
Step 1 - D3 Increases Calcium Absorption: Vitamin D3 enhances calcium absorption in the intestines by promoting the production of calcium-binding proteins. This increases the amount of calcium available in the bloodstream for use by the body.
Step 2 - K2 Activates Calcium-Regulating Proteins: Vitamin K2 activates two critical proteins: osteocalcin (which binds calcium to bones) and matrix Gla-protein or MGP (which prevents calcium from depositing in soft tissues like arteries).
Step 3 - Calcium Goes to the Right Places: With both vitamins working together, calcium is efficiently absorbed (thanks to D3) and properly directed to bones and teeth (thanks to K2) while being kept out of arteries and soft tissues.
The Problem with D3 Alone: Taking vitamin D3 without K2 can increase calcium absorption without proper direction. This may lead to calcium circulating in the blood without being properly utilized, potentially depositing in soft tissues where it doesn't belong.
The Problem with K2 Alone: Taking K2 without D3 means there may not be enough calcium absorbed from the diet for K2 to direct to the bones, limiting its effectiveness.
Better Together: The combination ensures optimal calcium metabolism - adequate absorption AND proper distribution. This supports both bone health (by getting calcium into bones) and cardiovascular health (by keeping calcium out of arteries).
Synergistic Benefits: Research suggests that D3 and K2 together are more effective at supporting bone density and cardiovascular health than either vitamin alone.
Bone Health Support
This formula supports bone health through multiple mechanisms:
Calcium Absorption: Vitamin D3 is essential for calcium absorption in the intestines. Without adequate D3, the body cannot absorb calcium efficiently, regardless of intake.
Bone Mineralization: Vitamin K2 activates osteocalcin, a protein that binds calcium to the bone matrix, supporting bone strength and density.
Teeth Health: Both vitamins support dental health by ensuring proper calcium utilization in teeth.
Bone Density: Together, D3 and K2 support healthy bone density, which is particularly important as we age.
Immune System Support
Vitamin D3 plays a critical role in immune function:
Immune Cell Function: Vitamin D3 supports the function of immune cells including T cells and macrophages, which are essential for immune defense.
Winter Support: During fall and winter months when sunlight exposure is limited, vitamin D levels often decrease. Supplementation helps maintain adequate levels year-round.
Northern Climates: People living in northern latitudes have limited UVB exposure during winter months, making supplementation particularly important.
Who May Consider This Product
• Vegans and vegetarians seeking plant-based D3 and K2
• Individuals with limited sun exposure
• People living in northern climates
• Those seeking bone health support
• Individuals wanting immune system support
• People concerned about calcium distribution
• Those preferring clean, non-animal vitamin sources
• Individuals seeking Canadian-made supplements
Quality & Purity
• Health Canada approved (NPN 80134585)
• 25mcg (1000 IU) vitamin D3 from lichens
• 120mcg vitamin K2 as MK-7 from natto
• 100% plant-based and vegan
• Vegan capsules (hypromellose)
• Made in Canada
• 120 capsules
• Clean, non-animal sources
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep bottle tightly sealed. Do not refrigerate.
Safety Information
Consult a healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications (particularly blood thinners or anticoagulants), or have a medical condition. Vitamin K can interfere with blood-thinning medications.
Keep out of reach of children.
This product is approved by Health Canada (NPN 80134585).
Vegan Vitamin D3+K2 – Plant-Based Formula from Lichens & Natto for Bone and Immune Health
This product contains 25mcg (1000 IU) of vegan vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) sourced from lichens and 120mcg of vitamin K2 as menaquinone-7 (MK-7) sourced from natto (fermented soybeans). This fully plant-based formula provides the synergistic benefits of vitamins D3 and K2 working together to support calcium absorption, bone mineralization, and proper calcium distribution. Vitamin D3 supports immune system function and bone health, while vitamin K2 MK-7 directs calcium to bones and teeth rather than soft tissues. Ideal for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone seeking clean, non-animal sources of these essential vitamins. Health Canada approved (NPN 80134585). Made in Canada. 120 vegan capsules.
Key Benefits
• Supports bone and teeth health
• Supports immune system function
• Supports calcium absorption and utilization
• Directs calcium to bones, not soft tissues
• 25mcg (1000 IU) vitamin D3 per capsule
• 120mcg vitamin K2 MK-7 per capsule
• 100% plant-based and vegan
• D3 from lichens (not lanolin)
• K2 MK-7 from natto (fermented soybeans)
• Health Canada approved (NPN 80134585)
• Made in Canada
• 120 vegan capsules
What Are Vitamins D3 and K2?
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is the active form of vitamin D that the body produces when skin is exposed to sunlight. It plays a critical role in calcium absorption, bone health, and immune function. Vitamin K2 (menaquinone) is a fat-soluble vitamin that activates proteins responsible for directing calcium to bones and teeth while preventing calcium deposits in soft tissues like arteries. Together, these vitamins work synergistically for optimal bone and cardiovascular health.
Quick Facts
• Vitamin D3: 25 mcg (1000 IU)
• Vitamin K2: 120 mcg (as MK-7)
• D3 source: Lichens (plant-based)
• K2 source: Natto (fermented soybeans)
• Form: Vegan capsules
• Capsules per bottle: 120
• Health Canada NPN: 80134585
• 100% vegan: Yes
• Made in: Canada
Vitamin D3 vs. D2: Why D3 Is Superior
Not all vitamin D is created equal. Understanding the difference between D3 and D2 is important:
Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol): This is the form of vitamin D produced in human skin when exposed to UVB sunlight. It's the natural, bioidentical form that the body recognizes and uses most efficiently. D3 is more potent and longer-lasting in the body.
Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol): This form is produced by plants and fungi when exposed to UV light. While D2 can raise vitamin D levels, it's less effective than D3 and has a shorter duration of action in the body.
Potency Difference: Research shows that vitamin D3 is approximately 87% more potent than D2 at raising and maintaining blood levels of vitamin D. D3 also has a longer half-life, meaning it stays active in the body longer.
Bioavailability: D3 binds more effectively to vitamin D binding proteins in the blood, resulting in better absorption and utilization by the body.
Why This Formula Uses D3: This product provides true vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) from lichens, not the less effective D2. You get the superior potency and bioavailability of D3 in a 100% vegan form.
Vegan D3 Advantage: Traditionally, vegans had to settle for D2 because D3 was only available from animal sources (lanolin). Lichen-derived D3 provides vegans with the superior D3 form without animal ingredients.
Why Vegan D3 from Lichens?
Most vitamin D3 supplements are derived from lanolin (sheep's wool), making them unsuitable for vegans. This formula uses vitamin D3 extracted from lichens, a unique plant-based source:
What Are Lichens? Lichens are composite organisms formed from algae and fungi living in symbiosis. Certain lichen species naturally produce vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), the same form produced in human skin from sunlight.
True Vitamin D3: Lichen-derived D3 is cholecalciferol, the active form of vitamin D, not the less effective D2 (ergocalciferol) found in some plant sources.
Vegan-Friendly: Lichen D3 provides the benefits of vitamin D3 without animal-derived ingredients, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Clean Source: Lichens are sustainably harvested and provide a pure, clean source of vitamin D3.
Why K2 MK-7 from Natto?
Vitamin K2 exists in several forms, with MK-7 being the most bioavailable and longest-lasting:
What Is Natto? Natto is a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. The fermentation process produces menaquinone-7 (MK-7), the most bioavailable form of vitamin K2.
MK-7 vs. MK-4: MK-7 has a longer half-life in the body (72 hours) compared to MK-4 (1 hour), providing more sustained vitamin K2 activity throughout the day.
Superior Bioavailability: MK-7 is better absorbed and remains active in the body longer than other forms of vitamin K2.
Plant-Based: Natto-derived K2 MK-7 is 100% plant-based, suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
How Vitamin D3 and K2 Work Together: The Perfect Partnership
Vitamins D3 and K2 have a synergistic relationship that makes them more effective together than separately:
Step 1 - D3 Increases Calcium Absorption: Vitamin D3 enhances calcium absorption in the intestines by promoting the production of calcium-binding proteins. This increases the amount of calcium available in the bloodstream for use by the body.
Step 2 - K2 Activates Calcium-Regulating Proteins: Vitamin K2 activates two critical proteins: osteocalcin (which binds calcium to bones) and matrix Gla-protein or MGP (which prevents calcium from depositing in soft tissues like arteries).
Step 3 - Calcium Goes to the Right Places: With both vitamins working together, calcium is efficiently absorbed (thanks to D3) and properly directed to bones and teeth (thanks to K2) while being kept out of arteries and soft tissues.
The Problem with D3 Alone: Taking vitamin D3 without K2 can increase calcium absorption without proper direction. This may lead to calcium circulating in the blood without being properly utilized, potentially depositing in soft tissues where it doesn't belong.
The Problem with K2 Alone: Taking K2 without D3 means there may not be enough calcium absorbed from the diet for K2 to direct to the bones, limiting its effectiveness.
Better Together: The combination ensures optimal calcium metabolism - adequate absorption AND proper distribution. This supports both bone health (by getting calcium into bones) and cardiovascular health (by keeping calcium out of arteries).
Synergistic Benefits: Research suggests that D3 and K2 together are more effective at supporting bone density and cardiovascular health than either vitamin alone.
Bone Health Support
This formula supports bone health through multiple mechanisms:
Calcium Absorption: Vitamin D3 is essential for calcium absorption in the intestines. Without adequate D3, the body cannot absorb calcium efficiently, regardless of intake.
Bone Mineralization: Vitamin K2 activates osteocalcin, a protein that binds calcium to the bone matrix, supporting bone strength and density.
Teeth Health: Both vitamins support dental health by ensuring proper calcium utilization in teeth.
Bone Density: Together, D3 and K2 support healthy bone density, which is particularly important as we age.
Immune System Support
Vitamin D3 plays a critical role in immune function:
Immune Cell Function: Vitamin D3 supports the function of immune cells including T cells and macrophages, which are essential for immune defense.
Winter Support: During fall and winter months when sunlight exposure is limited, vitamin D levels often decrease. Supplementation helps maintain adequate levels year-round.
Northern Climates: People living in northern latitudes have limited UVB exposure during winter months, making supplementation particularly important.
Who May Consider This Product
• Vegans and vegetarians seeking plant-based D3 and K2
• Individuals with limited sun exposure
• People living in northern climates
• Those seeking bone health support
• Individuals wanting immune system support
• People concerned about calcium distribution
• Those preferring clean, non-animal vitamin sources
• Individuals seeking Canadian-made supplements
Quality & Purity
• Health Canada approved (NPN 80134585)
• 25mcg (1000 IU) vitamin D3 from lichens
• 120mcg vitamin K2 as MK-7 from natto
• 100% plant-based and vegan
• Vegan capsules (hypromellose)
• Made in Canada
• 120 capsules
• Clean, non-animal sources
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep bottle tightly sealed. Do not refrigerate.
Safety Information
Consult a healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications (particularly blood thinners or anticoagulants), or have a medical condition. Vitamin K can interfere with blood-thinning medications.
Keep out of reach of children.
This product is approved by Health Canada (NPN 80134585).