By Alan Johnson,Chloe Dobinson
Copyright manchestereveningnews
A doctor has issued a health warning to anyone taking Vitamin D supplements, revealing you should never consume it without a specific second vitamin alongside it. Dr Jo Ward used TikTok to warn her followers to “be careful” and offered additional advice. “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 her educational video. She highlighted that currently, 60% of UK residents rely on Vitamin D supplements from September to May owing to insufficient natural production under Britain’s UV Index. However, it’s the pairing of vitamins that Dr Ward emphasised as crucial. “That’s a not a good idea,” she declared firmly regarding taking Vitamin D alone. 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 doctor continued her guidance by addressing St. John’s Wort, warning users that the herbal supplement could result in potentially dangerous drug interactions. “Sometimes it renders the contraceptive pill ineffective, which can lead to an unwanted pregnancy,” she cautioned. Additionally, she raised concerns for individuals taking blood thinners and heart medications such as digoxin, advising: “Check with your doctor if you are worried about reactions.” The doctor stressed the significance of taking supplements properly by 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.” Concluding 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.” Expressing appreciation, 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 user applauded the guidance, writing: “Really useful information about supplements, thanks!” whilst a further commenter noted: “It all depends on your health condition.” Supporting Dr Ward’s advice regarding Vitamin D and K2, 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 body through at least two mechanisms:. Calcification of blood vessels contributes to the progression of chronic conditions, including heart and kidney disease. “.
