Dr Jo Ward has taken to TikTok to share her expert advice on the best way to take Vitamin D supplements, and has warned that you should never take it on its own
A doctor has issued a health warning to anyone using Vitamin D supplements, revealing you should avoid taking it without a second particular vitamin alongside it. Dr Jo Ward took to TikTok to caution her audience to “be careful” and provided further guidance.
“If you take Vitamin D, St. John’s Wort, zinc or magnesium, here’s a few things you need to be aware of,” the doctor began the informative clip.
She highlighted that currently, 60% of UK residents rely on Vitamin D supplements from September to May owing to insufficient natural production beneath Britain’s UV Index.
However, it’s the pairing of vitamins that Dr Ward emphasised is crucial.
“That’s a not a good idea,” she said emphatically about solo consumption of Vitamin D.
Rather, she recommended: “Vitamin D should always be taken with Vitamin K2 – the reason why is if you take D on its own it can cause calcification of the arteries. Vitamin K2 prevents that so it’s a really good idea to find a formula with K2 and D together.”
The medic didn’t finish there; she also addressed the subject of St. John’s Wort, warning users that the herbal treatment could result in potentially dangerous medication interactions.
“Sometimes it renders the contraceptive pill ineffective, which can lead to an unwanted pregnancy,” she cautioned.
Additionally, she raised concerns for those taking blood thinners and heart medications like digoxin, adding: “Check with your doctor if you are worried about reactions.”
The medic stressed how crucial it is to consume supplements properly, explaining: “These are not the best when taken together,” and adding that “They should be taken separately – especially when they’re high doses. That’s because they compete for the same absorption.”
Wrapping up her guidance, she advised: “Make sure you take zinc with food, always, and magnesium is often better taken at night. You just need to know what you’re doing is safe for them to be beneficial.”
Responding with praise, one TikTok user commented: “The problem is, not all doctors understand about supplements. Many have told me supplements are pointless. I’m glad you do. Big thanks.”
Another applauded the guidance, writing: “Really useful information about supplements, thanks!” whilst a different follower noted: “It all depends on your health condition.”
Meanwhile, backing up Dr Ward’s Vitamin D and K2 recommendations, Healthline explains: “Vitamin D ensures that your blood levels of calcium are high enough to meet your body’s demands. However, vitamin D does not fully control where the calcium in your body ends up. That’s where vitamin K steps in.”
Vitamin K manages calcium in your system in at least two ways:.
Calcium build-up in blood vessels contributes to developing long-term illnesses, including heart and kidney disease.