With all the supplement options out there, it can be confusing knowing which ones to take and whether they're best taken with or without a meal.  Three specific nutrients – omega-3s, vitamin D3, and vitamin K2 as MK-7 – are found to have synergistic benefits. Because of this new finding, Carlson recently launched a three-in-one blend: Omega-3 + D & K, making it easy and convenient for us to get the benefits of all of these nutrients in a single teaspoon. (We also offer a soft gel version: Elite Omega-3 + D & K.) 

Omega-3, D3, K2 Health Benefits

Omega-3s and vitamins D3 and K2 are all fat-soluble vitamins. It's often recommended supplements are taken with a meal, and these three are no exception. Fat-soluble nutrients are better absorbed by our body when taken with food. More specifically, fat-soluble supplements should be taken with a meal containing healthy fats, like avocado, salmon, nut butter, or yogurt. When we consume and begin digesting fats, our pancreas releases enzymes (such as lipase) and our gallbladder releases bile to help break fats down into smaller units for our gastrointestinal (GI) tract to absorb. 

Omega-3s, D3, and K2 also offer more health benefits when taken together. They promote heart, bone, and immune health. Omega-3s on their own support heart, brain, vision, joint, and immune health. They are well-known for their cardiovascular benefits, which include supporting a healthy heart rhythm and blood vessel health, and helping to maintain healthy triglyceride levels already within the normal range. 

Vitamin D promotes bone, teeth, muscle, and immune health. Although we can get vitamin D from some of the foods we eat and our body can make it following sun exposure, it's often not enough to reach the recommended daily intake, which is why a supplement can be a great option. Vitamin K2 is an important nutrient for adults and children to support healthy cardiovascular function, blood clotting, and bones.

Vitamin D3 is important for calcium transport and K2 as MK-7 is critical for making several key proteins, including osteocalcin and matrix GLA. Without enough K2 as MK-7, a significant amount of osteocalcin will remain inactive and unable to bind to calcium. Our bones continue forming until age 30, so it's important we get enough K2 as MK-7 in our younger years as well to build a healthy, solid foundation for strong bones.

Give one of our omega-3, d3, and K2 formulas a try, and be sure to take it with a meal containing healthy fats for maximum absorption.