Cofactors

Vitamin D depends on cofactors that support absorption, transport, receptor activity, calcium handling, and biological function. Vitamin K2 is described as working with vitamin D to regulate calcium placement after absorption. Cholesterol is described as raw material for making vitamin D in the skin during sunlight exposure. Zinc deficiency may impair cellular response to vitamin D by reducing vitamin D receptor function. Magnesium is required for multiple enzymatic steps in vitamin D activation and its deficiency blocks conversion. Vitamin K2 directs calcium mobilized by vitamin D to bones and away from arteries, preventing arterial calcification. Boron extends the half-life of vitamin D, increasing its effective duration and reducing breakdown. Taking high-dose vitamin D3 without K2 can direct calcium to soft tissues and arteries instead of bones. The major cofactors named for vitamin D are magnesium, vitamin K2, zinc, retinol, and cholesterol. Retinol from animal products is presented as a support for proper vitamin D function.