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vitamin d
Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 5000 IU + 100 mcg MK-7Review 2026
Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 delivers 5000 IU vegan lichen D3 plus 100 mcg MK-7 (the clinically-superior K2 form) in coconut MCT carrier. We score it 90/100 (TOP PICK). CPED $0.43/day. The vitamin D + K2 combo done right.
EDE Score
Verdict
Cost per effective day
$0.43 / effective day/ day
Best in class
This product
Why this verdict
- MK-7 K2 form (~10x serum half-life vs MK-4)
- 5000 IU D3 = top of clinical range
- Vegan lichen D3 + soy-free chickpea MK-7
Verdict: TOP PICK. EDE Score 90/100. Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 is the gold-standard combined vitamin D + K2 product on the US market for men 40+ seeking clinically-effective supplementation. It delivers 5000 IU of vegan-sourced D3 from lichen plus 100 mcg of MK-7 (the long-half-life menaquinone form, sourced from fermented chickpeas, soy-free) in a coconut MCT oil carrier for optimal fat-soluble absorption. The MK-7 specification is the central editorial point: it is the K2 form with documented superior pharmacokinetics vs the MK-4 form found in our previously-reviewed Thorne Vitamin D + K2 Liquid (BUY 81/100), per the Sato 2012 head-to-head trial showing approximately 10x serum half-life advantage. Single-softgel daily dosing, Plantgel tapioca-based capsule (carrageenan-free), Non-GMO Project Verified, Vegan Certified, gluten-free, soy-free. The 4-point gap to absolute peak in our scoring reflects the structural NSF Certified for Sport gap in the vitamin D combo category (no major D + K2 product currently carries NSF Sport, including this one). Strong TOP PICK for any buyer who wants the vitamin D + K2 combination matched to the published trial literature with the bioavailability-superior K2 form.
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At a glance
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | Sports Research |
| Product | Vitamin D3 + K2 5000 IU + 100 mcg MK-7 |
| Form | Vegan Plantgel softgel (tapioca-based, carrageenan-free) |
| Servings per bottle | 60 (1 softgel per serving) |
| Softgels per bottle | 60 (also 30-cap and 120-cap SKUs available) |
| Active ingredient (D3) | Cholecalciferol from lichen (vegan), 125 mcg = 5000 IU |
| Active ingredient (K2) | Menaquinone-7 (MK-7) from fermented chickpeas, 100 mcg |
| Carrier | Coconut MCT oil |
| Suggested dose | 1 softgel daily |
| Price (brand direct, typical) | $25.97 (60 cap) |
| CPED | $0.43 per effective day |
| Best-in-class CPED for combined D3+K2 (MK-7 form) | $0.30 to $0.80 depending on bottle size |
| Third-party certification | 3rd party tested + Non-GMO Project Verified + Vegan Certified (NOT NSF Certified for Sport - structural category gap) |
| EDE Score | 90/100 |
| Verdict | TOP PICK |
Why this product matters for men 40+
The vitamin D + K2 combination is the foundational fat-soluble vitamin pairing for men 40+ stratifying long-term cardiovascular and skeletal health. The clinical case for combining these two vitamins rather than supplementing D3 alone is mechanistically compelling:
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) drives intestinal calcium absorption, raising serum calcium and supporting bone mineralization, immune function, and androgen synthesis machinery. The 2010 Pilz trial in Hormone and Metabolic Research found that 3,332 IU/day vitamin D over 1 year increased total testosterone by approximately 25 percent in men with sub-optimal baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D status1. NHANES data consistently shows 40-50 percent of US adults are vitamin D insufficient (serum 25(OH)D below 30 ng/mL), with the gap concentrated in the 40+ demographic.
Vitamin K2 (menaquinones) activates two critical proteins involved in directing where the absorbed calcium goes: matrix Gla protein (MGP) in vascular tissue, which inhibits arterial calcification; and osteocalcin in bone, which directs calcium incorporation into the skeletal matrix. The 2015 Knapen trial in Thrombosis and Haemostasis found that 180 mcg/day MK-7 over 3 years significantly improved arterial stiffness measures and slowed vascular calcification progression in healthy postmenopausal women2. The 2019 Mansour trial in Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice found that combined vitamin D + K2 supplementation improved glycemic control and lipid profiles in patients with type 2 diabetes3.
The mechanistic rationale: high-dose vitamin D supplementation alone increases calcium absorption without ensuring proper distribution to bone. K2 directs the absorbed calcium to skeletal mineralization (via osteocalcin) and away from arterial deposition (via MGP). The combination is theoretically superior to D3 alone for cardiovascular safety during high-dose D3 protocols, although the clinical evidence for this combination effect specifically is suggestive rather than definitive at the current research level.
Critically for product selection, the K2 form matters. The Sato 2012 head-to-head pharmacokinetic study compared MK-4 and MK-7 directly4. The findings: MK-4 has a serum half-life of approximately 1 hour; MK-7 has a serum half-life of approximately 70 hours, achieving roughly 10x greater steady-state serum concentration at equivalent doses. This pharmacokinetic difference matters because the activation of MGP (vascular calcification protection) is an ongoing process that benefits from sustained K2 exposure; the short MK-4 half-life means MK-4 supplementation may not maintain therapeutic K2 status throughout the day, while MK-7 supplementation does.
This is the central editorial point that separates Sports Research D3 + K2 (MK-7 form, 90/100 TOP PICK) from our previously-reviewed Thorne D + K2 Liquid (MK-4 form, 81/100 BUY). Same category, two products, two verdicts, with the differentiator being the K2 form.
Editorial commentary
What we are paying attention to with this product: Sports Research has built its brand reputation around the "coconut MCT carrier + vegan-source ingredients" specification across its premium product line. For Vitamin D specifically, the brand made three editorially-correct decisions that converge to TOP PICK status.
Decision #1: MK-7, not MK-4. The K2 form choice is the single most important specification for a D3 + K2 combo product. MK-7 is more expensive than MK-4, with longer manufacturing supply chains (it requires bacterial fermentation rather than synthetic conversion), but it is the form with documented superior pharmacokinetics in head-to-head trials. Sports Research chose MK-7. Most premium-tier D + K2 products (Momentous, Sports Research, Designs for Health) use MK-7. Some premium-tier products (Thorne D + K2 Liquid) use MK-4, which is a defensible choice for some clinical contexts but suboptimal for steady-state K2 status maintenance.
Decision #2: 5000 IU D3, not 1000 IU. The clinically-effective vitamin D dose for raising 25-hydroxyvitamin D from insufficiency (below 30 ng/mL) into the optimal range (40-60 ng/mL) is typically 4,000 to 5,000 IU/day for the average US adult. The Pilz 2010 testosterone trial used 3,332 IU/day. The 2017 vitamin D supplementation umbrella review found dose-response relationships across multiple endpoints at the 2,000-5,000 IU/day range5. The Sports Research 5000 IU dose hits the upper end of the routinely-effective range, appropriate for buyers with documented insufficiency or high-need profiles. The Thorne D + K2 Liquid in our review #3 delivers only 1,000 IU per drop, requiring multi-drop protocols for clinical-grade dosing.
Decision #3: Vegan-sourced D3 from lichen. Most D3 supplements use lanolin-derived cholecalciferol (sheep's wool extract). Sports Research uses lichen-derived D3, which is structurally identical to lanolin-derived D3 but accommodates vegan buyers. This is a sustainability and ethics positioning that matters to a meaningful subset of the men's-health audience without compromising efficacy.
The CPED math is genuinely competitive. At $25.97 for the 60-softgel bottle, CPED is $0.43 per effective day. This is dramatically cheaper than the Thorne D + K2 Liquid effective-dose cost (which requires multi-drop protocols to reach 5000 IU equivalent), competitive with Momentous Vitamin D ($0.50/day with NSF Sport but standalone D without K2), and significantly cheaper than premium-tier D + K2 combos like Designs for Health Hi-Po Emulsi-D3 K2 (which reaches $1.00+/day at clinical doses).
The structural NSF Certified for Sport gap in the vitamin D + K2 category is worth flagging. As of the audit date, no major combined D + K2 product carries NSF Sport certification. Momentous Vitamin D3 (standalone, no K2) carries NSF Sport, but the moment you want the combined D3 + K2 specification with MK-7, you exit the NSF Sport ecosystem. This is a category-level limitation rather than a product-specific weakness; Sports Research's third-party testing + Non-GMO Project Verified + Vegan Certified stack is the next-best certification chain available within the D + K2 combo category.
Pattern with this category and the Tongkat Ali category from our review #9: where structural NSF Sport gaps exist in a supplement category, the TOP PICK tier requires excellence on the active form / standardization specification (MK-7 vs MK-4 for K2; HPTLC eurycomanone disclosure for Tongkat) as the functional equivalent. Sports Research D3 + K2 delivers exactly this: MK-7 form, clinical 5000 IU D3 dose, vegan lichen sourcing, Non-GMO Project Verified, coconut MCT carrier for fat-soluble absorption optimization.
For non-athlete buyers wanting the most rigorously-specified combined D + K2 product at a competitive CPED, this is the rational pick across the entire US market.
What is actually in it
| Ingredient | Form | Dose per serving | Clinical effective dose | % of effective dose | Evidence level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vitamin D3 | Cholecalciferol from lichen (vegan) | 125 mcg = 5000 IU | 2,000-5,000 IU/day for raising 25(OH)D from insufficient to optimal range | 100% (top of routinely-effective range) | Strong |
| Vitamin K2 | Menaquinone-7 (MK-7) from fermented chickpeas | 100 mcg | 90-180 mcg/day MK-7 (Knapen 2015 used 180 mcg) | 56-100% depending on target endpoint | Strong (vascular calcification protection) / Moderate (other endpoints) |
Other ingredients: Coconut MCT oil, Plantgel capsule (non-GMO modified tapioca starch, vegetable glycerin, purified water, chlorophyll for color), sunflower lecithin, rice bran wax.
That is the entire formulation. Two single-active-class ingredients at trial-validated doses, in the trial-validated K2 form, in a fat-soluble delivery vehicle (coconut MCT) appropriate for fat-soluble vitamin absorption. The Plantgel softgel is a Sports Research signature: a tapioca-based, carrageenan-free softgel that accommodates vegan buyers. Sunflower lecithin (rather than soy lecithin) avoids the most common food allergen in this category. Rice bran wax is a natural emulsifier.
The 5000 IU D3 figure is the standard FDA-aligned label conversion (125 mcg cholecalciferol = 5000 IU). The 100 mcg MK-7 specification matches the lower-bound clinical effective range (Knapen 2015 used 180 mcg; subsequent trials have used 90-200 mcg with comparable effects on osteocalcin carboxylation).
EDE Score breakdown
| Criterion | Weight | Score (0-100) | Weighted | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dose Efficacy | 30% | 92 | 27.6 | 5000 IU D3 = top of clinical-effective range; 100 mcg MK-7 K2 = clinical sweet spot for vascular calcification protection |
| Bioavailability | 20% | 95 | 19.0 | MK-7 vs MK-4 = ~10x serum half-life advantage (Sato 2012); coconut MCT carrier optimizes fat-soluble vitamin absorption |
| Third-Party Testing | 15% | 80 | 12.0 | 3rd party tested + Non-GMO Project Verified + Vegan Certified, but NOT NSF Sport (structural category gap) |
| Label Transparency | 15% | 100 | 15.0 | Single active class (D3 + K2), full disclosure including vegan source (lichen D3, fermented chickpea MK-7), no proprietary blend |
| Manufacturer Reputation | 10% | 90 | 9.0 | Sports Research = family-owned California 1980, transparent sourcing, consistent quality across our audited products |
| Community Sentiment | 5% | 50 | 2.5 | Default in Phase 1, enriched Q3 2026 |
| Price Per Effective Dose | 5% | 92 | 4.6 | $0.43/day at 60 cap = excellent value for combined D3 + K2 in MK-7 form with clinical 5000 IU dose |
| EDE Score | 100% | 90 / 100 | TOP PICK |
See our methodology for the full formula, weights, and tier definitions.
What we like
- MK-7 form, not MK-4. This is the single most important specification for a D + K2 combo. MK-7 has approximately 10x serum half-life of MK-4 per Sato 2012 head-to-head trial4, achieving and maintaining therapeutic K2 status with single-daily dosing where MK-4 would require multi-daily dosing.
- 5000 IU D3 = top of clinical-effective range. Single-softgel delivers the upper end of the routinely-effective vitamin D dose range for raising serum 25(OH)D from insufficiency into the optimal 40-60 ng/mL range. No multi-cap protocols required for clinical dosing.
- Vegan-sourced D3 from lichen. Most D3 supplements use lanolin (sheep's wool). Sports Research uses lichen-derived D3, accommodating vegan buyers without efficacy compromise. The cholecalciferol molecule is structurally identical regardless of source.
- MK-7 from fermented chickpeas, not soy. The most common MK-7 source in supplements is fermented natto (soy-derived). Sports Research uses fermented chickpeas, avoiding the soy allergen and aligning with the "soy-free" positioning sought by a meaningful subset of the men's-health audience.
- Coconut MCT oil carrier. Vitamin D and K2 are both fat-soluble vitamins; absorption requires concurrent dietary fat. The coconut MCT carrier ensures absorption regardless of meal timing, particularly relevant for buyers who take supplements on an empty stomach or with low-fat meals.
- Plantgel tapioca-based softgel, carrageenan-free. Sports Research developed one of the supplement industry's first tapioca-based softgels, avoiding gelatin (animal-derived) and carrageenan (an additive some sensitive users react to). Non-GMO Project Verified certification.
- Single-softgel daily dosing. No multi-cap protocols, no math, no ambiguity. Single daily dose matches the simplicity of the published trial protocols.
- Sports Research brand consistency. Same brand as our reviewed Sports Research Organic Ashwagandha KSM-66 (BUY 89/100 in our review #6); buyers using both products get supply-chain coherence from a single transparent manufacturer.
- Multiple bottle sizes. 30-softgel, 60-softgel, and 120-softgel SKUs accommodate different commitment levels. The 120-softgel SKU offers improved CPED for committed long-term users.
- 3rd-party tested with Non-GMO Project Verified + Vegan Certified. Triple certification stack (in-house testing, Non-GMO Project Verified, Vegan Certified) provides substantive third-party verification within the constraints of the D + K2 category.
What we don't like
- NOT NSF Certified for Sport. Structural gap in the combined D + K2 category. No major D + K2 product currently carries NSF Sport. Athletes subject to WADA-aligned testing must choose between (a) standalone NSF Sport vitamin D (Momentous, Klean Athlete) and supplementing K2 separately, or (b) accepting the combined D + K2 product without NSF Sport certification. Real trade-off for tested athletes.
- No NSF Certified for Sport, Informed Sport, or banned-substance-tested certification. Beyond the NSF Sport specifically, the broader athletic-scope third-party certification is absent. Most combined D + K2 products have this gap; not Sports Research-specific.
- 5000 IU may be too high for some users. Buyers with already-optimal 25(OH)D status (40-60 ng/mL) or those concurrently using high-dose D3 in fortified foods may not need 5000 IU/day. The Sports Research lower-dose alternative (1000 IU + 50 mcg MK-7 SKU) accommodates this; or buyers can dose less frequently (e.g., 4 days per week instead of daily). The 1000 IU SKU is a separate purchase.
- Plantgel softgel may not suit all sensitive users. While carrageenan-free and non-GMO, the softgel contains glycerin and sunflower lecithin; some users with multiple food sensitivities prefer pure-capsule formats. Alternative pure-capsule D + K2 products exist at lower bioavailability (no MCT carrier).
- Price premium vs unstandardized D-only alternatives. $25.97 for 60 caps vs $10-15 for generic 5000 IU D3-only products. The premium reflects the K2 inclusion (significant cost driver), MK-7 form choice, vegan lichen sourcing, and Plantgel softgel formulation. For buyers who don't want K2 inclusion, standalone D3 is cheaper.
- No batch-level COA published per bottle. Sports Research conducts third-party testing and publishes general quality statements, but does not publish per-batch certificates of analysis on the product page. You trust the brand's testing rather than verify per-batch (Nootropics Depot's batch-level transparency is the rare exception in the supplement industry).
- K2 dose is at lower bound of clinical range. The 100 mcg MK-7 dose is at the lower end of the clinical effective range (Knapen 2015 used 180 mcg over 3 years; subsequent trials have used 90-200 mcg). Buyers seeking maximal MK-7 dosing for vascular calcification protection may want to add additional standalone K2 alongside this product.
Cost per effective day (CPED)
Bottle price (60 cap): $25.97 (brand direct, typical)
Servings per bottle: 60 (1 softgel per serving)
D3 per serving: 125 mcg = 5000 IU
K2 (MK-7) per serving: 100 mcg
Manufacturer-recommended dose: 1 softgel daily
Days of effective dosing: 60 days
CPED (1-cap clinical dose): $25.97 / 60 = $0.43 per effective day
For 120-cap SKU:
Bottle price (120 cap): $44.97 (brand direct, typical)
Days of dosing: 120 days
CPED (120-cap SKU): $44.97 / 120 = $0.37 per effective day
For 30-cap SKU:
Bottle price (30 cap): $17.97 (brand direct, typical)
Days of dosing: 30 days
CPED (30-cap SKU): $17.97 / 30 = $0.60 per effective day
Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 costs $0.43 per effective day at the manufacturer's recommended single-softgel dose, which delivers 5000 IU D3 + 100 mcg MK-7 in coconut MCT carrier.
For comparison, the combined D + K2 pricing grid:
| Product | D3 dose | K2 form | K2 dose | EDE Score | CPED | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports Research Vit D3 + K2 (60 cap) | 5000 IU | MK-7 | 100 mcg | 90/100 | $0.43 | TOP PICK |
| Designs for Health Hi-Po Emulsi-D3 K2 | 2000 IU | MK-7 | 200 mcg | 87/100 | $1.00 | BUY (premium) |
| Pure Encapsulations D3 1000 IU + K2 | 1000 IU | MK-7 | 90 mcg | 84/100 | $0.55 | BUY |
| Thorne Vitamin D + K2 Liquid (drops) | 1000 IU/drop | MK-4 | 200 mcg/drop | 81/100 | $0.20 | BUY |
| Standalone Momentous Vitamin D3 (no K2) | 2000 IU | none | 0 | 85/100 | $0.50 | BUY (NSF Sport) |
| Generic Amazon D3 5000 IU (no K2) | 5000 IU | none | 0 | 65/100 | $0.10 | WATCH |
Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 wins decisively on the combination of D3 dose adequacy (5000 IU vs 1000-2000 IU competitors), K2 form choice (MK-7 vs MK-4 in Thorne), trial-validated combined product approach, and competitive CPED. The Designs for Health alternative offers higher MK-7 dose but at 2.3x the CPED. The Thorne liquid offers lower CPED but uses MK-4 (suboptimal half-life) and requires multi-drop protocols for clinical D3 dosing.
The CPED is genuinely competitive at the active-content tier. For buyers comparing apples-to-apples on D3 + MK-7 content per dollar, Sports Research is the rational pick.
Ingredient-by-ingredient analysis
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol from lichen, vegan-sourced)
Dose in this product: 125 mcg = 5000 IU per softgel Clinical effective dose: 2,000-5,000 IU/day for raising serum 25(OH)D from insufficiency to optimal range1 5 Evidence level: Strong Verdict for this ingredient: Top of routinely-effective dose range, vegan lichen source, structurally identical to lanolin-derived D3
The vitamin D evidence base for men 40+ is genuinely strong across multiple endpoints:
Testosterone. The 2010 Pilz trial in Hormone and Metabolic Research studied 3,332 IU/day vitamin D over 1 year in overweight men with sub-optimal baseline 25(OH)D1. The supplemented group showed approximately 25 percent increase in total testosterone vs placebo. The mechanism involves vitamin D's role in steroidogenic enzymes and the vitamin D receptor expression in Leydig cells.
Cardiovascular health. Multiple large prospective cohorts associate optimal 25(OH)D status (40-60 ng/mL) with reduced cardiovascular event risk vs deficient status (below 20 ng/mL). The clinical interventional evidence for vitamin D supplementation reducing hard cardiovascular endpoints is mixed (VITAL trial, 2019, showed no benefit on primary cardiovascular composite), but the observational evidence consistently favors vitamin D adequacy.
Bone health. Vitamin D is the primary regulator of calcium absorption and bone mineralization. The combination with K2 (this product) directs absorbed calcium to skeletal mineralization (osteocalcin pathway) rather than vascular deposition.
Immune function. Vitamin D modulates innate and adaptive immunity. Meta-analyses of randomized trials support vitamin D supplementation reducing acute respiratory tract infection risk, particularly in deficient subjects.
Why 5000 IU specifically? The dose-response between vitamin D supplementation and serum 25(OH)D status follows a well-characterized curve. For the average US adult with baseline 25(OH)D in the 20-30 ng/mL range, 4000-5000 IU/day raises status into the 40-60 ng/mL optimal range over 8-12 weeks. Lower doses (1000-2000 IU/day) raise status more slowly and may be insufficient for buyers with high body weight, dark skin, limited sun exposure, or fat malabsorption. The 5000 IU dose is appropriate for the average buyer; documented hypervitaminosis D requires sustained doses above 10,000 IU/day for extended periods.
Vitamin K2 (Menaquinone-7 from fermented chickpeas)
Dose in this product: 100 mcg MK-7 per softgel Clinical effective dose: 90-180 mcg/day MK-7 (Knapen 2015 used 180 mcg; subsequent trials at 90-200 mcg)2 Evidence level: Strong (vascular calcification protection) / Moderate (other endpoints) Verdict for this ingredient: Trial-validated dose at lower bound of clinical range, optimal MK-7 form, soy-free chickpea source
The K2 evidence base is concentrated in the cardiovascular and skeletal health domains:
Vascular calcification protection. The 2015 Knapen trial in Thrombosis and Haemostasis studied 180 mcg/day MK-7 over 3 years in 244 healthy postmenopausal women2. The MK-7 group showed significant improvement in arterial stiffness measures (carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity) and slowed coronary artery calcification progression vs placebo. The mechanism involves MK-7-dependent activation of matrix Gla protein (MGP), which inhibits calcium deposition in vascular smooth muscle.
Osteocalcin carboxylation. Vitamin K2 activates osteocalcin via gamma-carboxylation, enabling osteocalcin's role in calcium incorporation into bone matrix. Multiple trials demonstrate that K2 supplementation (90-200 mcg/day MK-7) improves osteocalcin carboxylation status within 4-8 weeks. This is the foundation for the "K2 directs calcium to bone, not arteries" mechanism that justifies combined D3 + K2 supplementation.
Why MK-7 over MK-4? This is the central pharmacokinetic point. The 2012 Sato head-to-head trial in Nutrition Journal directly compared MK-4 and MK-7 oral supplementation4. Findings: MK-4 has serum half-life of approximately 1 hour; MK-7 has serum half-life of approximately 70 hours. At equivalent oral doses, MK-7 achieves roughly 10x greater steady-state serum concentration. The functional implication: MK-7 maintains therapeutic K2 status with single-daily dosing, while MK-4 supplementation may produce K2 status that is inadequately sustained throughout the day. For ongoing processes like MGP activation (vascular calcification protection) and osteocalcin carboxylation (bone mineralization), the sustained K2 status from MK-7 is the relevant pharmacokinetic profile.
This pharmacokinetic difference is the central editorial point in our scoring: Sports Research D3 + K2 (MK-7 form, 90/100 TOP PICK) wins the K2 form decision against our previously-reviewed Thorne D + K2 Liquid (MK-4 form, 81/100 BUY). Same category, two products, two verdicts, with the differentiator being the K2 form pharmacokinetics.
Why fermented chickpeas, not soy natto? The most common commercial source of MK-7 is fermented soy natto. Sports Research uses fermented chickpeas, avoiding the soy allergen for the meaningful subset of the men's-health audience that prefers soy-free supplementation. The MK-7 molecule is structurally identical regardless of fermentation substrate; the chickpea source is a clean-label and allergen-avoidance positioning rather than an efficacy difference.
Why 100 mcg specifically? The 100 mcg MK-7 dose sits at the lower bound of the clinical effective range. Knapen 2015 used 180 mcg; smaller trials have used 90-200 mcg with comparable osteocalcin carboxylation effects. The 100 mcg dose is sufficient for general adequacy and bone/vascular protection in most users. Buyers seeking maximal MK-7 dosing (180-200 mcg/day for explicit vascular calcification protection in higher-risk profiles) may want to add additional standalone MK-7 alongside this product, or choose the higher-dose Designs for Health alternative.
Community sentiment summary
Community sentiment is one signal among seven and is weighted 5% in the EDE Score. In Phase 1 of the DosedWise project, this criterion uses a default neutral score of 50/100. The Reddit Intelligence layer for automated sentiment analysis across r/Supplements, r/VitaminD, r/Cardio, and r/biohackers ships in Q3 2026, at which point this section will be replaced with quantitative sentiment data from the past 90 days.
Anecdotal observation across men's-health and biohacker communities: Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 is a frequently-recommended product in r/Supplements and r/VitaminD discussions of D + K2 combo selection. The most common positive themes are the MK-7 form choice (frequently cited as the spec that matters), the 5000 IU clinical-grade D3 dose, the vegan lichen sourcing, the soy-free MK-7 source, the coconut MCT carrier for absorption, and the favorable CPED relative to premium alternatives. The most common negative themes are the absence of NSF Sport / Informed Sport (limiting for athletes), the 100 mcg MK-7 dose at lower bound of clinical range (some users prefer 180 mcg), the Plantgel softgel format for users who prefer pure capsules, and the bottle-to-bottle variation in softgel oil consistency at extreme temperatures (cosmetic only, not efficacy-related).
This summary is editorial commentary and is not yet weighted into the EDE Score. The score above already accounts for the 5% Community Sentiment weight at the Phase 1 default value.
Compared to alternatives
For combined Vitamin D3 + K2 supplements, here is how Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 compares to top alternatives we have audited:
| Product | D3 dose | K2 form | K2 dose | EDE Score | CPED | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 (60 cap) | 5000 IU | MK-7 | 100 mcg | 90/100 | $0.43 | TOP PICK |
| Designs for Health Hi-Po Emulsi-D3 K2 | 2000 IU | MK-7 | 200 mcg | 87/100 | $1.00 | BUY (premium MK-7 high dose) |
| Pure Encapsulations Vitamin D3/K2 1000 IU | 1000 IU | MK-7 | 90 mcg | 84/100 | $0.55 | BUY (lower D3 dose) |
| Thorne Vitamin D + K2 Liquid (drops) | 1000 IU/drop | MK-4 | 200 mcg/drop | 81/100 | $0.20 | BUY (MK-4 form, multi-drop dosing) |
| Standalone Momentous Vitamin D3 (no K2) | 2000 IU | none | 0 | 85/100 | $0.50 | BUY (NSF Sport, K2 separate) |
| Standalone NOW Vitamin D3 5000 IU (no K2) | 5000 IU | none | 0 | 70/100 | $0.10 | BUY (D3 only, no K2) |
| Generic Amazon D3 + K2 (varies) | varies | varies | varies | 50/100 | $0.15 | WATCH |
Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 wins decisively on the combination of MK-7 form choice, clinical 5000 IU D3 dose, trial-validated combined product approach, vegan/soy-free sourcing rigor, and competitive CPED. The dramatic verdict gap between this product (TOP PICK 90) and Thorne D + K2 Liquid (BUY 81) within the same Vitamin D + K2 category demonstrates the central editorial principle: K2 form choice (MK-7 vs MK-4) is the spec that defines clinical-grade combined D + K2 products.
For non-athlete buyers seeking the most rigorously-specified combined D + K2 product, this is the rational pick. For athletes subject to WADA-aligned testing, the structural NSF Sport gap in the combined D + K2 category forces a choice: standalone NSF Sport D3 (Momentous) plus separate K2, or accepting the combined product without NSF Sport certification.
Who should buy this
Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 is best for:
- Men 40+ seeking the foundational vitamin D + K2 combination at clinical-grade D3 dose with the bioavailability-superior MK-7 K2 form.
- Buyers with documented 25(OH)D insufficiency (below 30 ng/mL) needing 4000-5000 IU/day to reach optimal range over 8-12 weeks.
- Vegan and vegan-curious buyers wanting lichen-sourced D3 (vs lanolin) and chickpea-fermented MK-7 (vs soy natto).
- Buyers concerned about vascular calcification risk (family history, elevated coronary calcium scores, type 2 diabetes) who want the K2-MGP activation pathway alongside vitamin D.
- Brand-loyal Sports Research users (also see our Sports Research Organic Ashwagandha KSM-66 review at BUY 89/100) seeking supply-chain coherence.
- Stack-builders building a foundational men's-health protocol who want the gold-standard D + K2 product without committing to NSF Sport pricing tiers.
- First-time D + K2 users wanting to start with the trial-matched 5000 IU + 100 mcg MK-7 specification rather than experimenting with lower-dose alternatives.
Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 is NOT for:
- Athletes subject to WADA-aligned drug testing. Choose standalone Momentous Vitamin D3 (NSF Sport) and supplement K2 separately, or accept the combined product without NSF Sport certification.
- Buyers seeking maximal MK-7 dose (180-200 mcg/day for explicit high-dose vascular protection). Choose Designs for Health Hi-Po Emulsi-D3 K2 (200 mcg MK-7) or supplement additional standalone MK-7 alongside this product.
- Buyers already at optimal 25(OH)D status (40-60 ng/mL) who don't need 5000 IU/day. Choose lower-dose alternatives (Pure Encapsulations 1000 IU or Sports Research's own 1000 IU SKU).
- Buyers preferring pure-capsule formats over softgels. Pure-capsule D + K2 alternatives exist at lower bioavailability (no MCT carrier).
- Anyone on warfarin or vitamin K antagonist anticoagulant therapy. Vitamin K2 supplementation is contraindicated; consult your prescribing physician.
- Anyone with documented hypercalcemia or kidney stones without nephrologist consultation.
Stacking notes
Vitamin D3 + K2 stacks cleanly with the rest of the men's-health basics:
- Magnesium glycinate or bisglycinate at 300 to 400 mg elemental. Magnesium is required as a cofactor for vitamin D activation; vitamin D supplementation without adequate magnesium status is functionally limited. The 2018 Uwitonze and Razzaque review in the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association documented this dependency explicitly.
- Zinc bisglycinate or picolinate at 15 to 30 mg/day. Foundational mineral, no specific D3-K2 interaction. Take separately if possible (mineral competition with calcium absorption from D3-driven calcium uptake).
- Boron (Bororganic Glycine) at 3 to 6 mg/day. Boron amplifies vitamin D's effects on calcium and magnesium metabolism per Pizzorno 2015 review. The combination is synergistic for skeletal and hormonal endpoints.
- Vitamin A (retinol) at 5,000 IU/day. Vitamin A and vitamin D have antagonistic effects on calcium homeostasis; the optimal A:D ratio for men 40+ is approximately 5,000 IU vitamin A to 5,000 IU vitamin D. Cod liver oil delivers both naturally; otherwise supplement separately.
- Omega-3 (EPA/DHA) at 1-2 g combined. Omega-3 fatty acids enhance fat-soluble vitamin absorption when co-administered. The Sports Research Omega-3 Fish Oil 1250 stack pairs cleanly with this D + K2 product.
Timing recommendation: Take with the largest fat-containing meal of the day. Vitamin D and K2 are fat-soluble; absorption is dramatically enhanced by concurrent dietary fat (more than 5g). The coconut MCT carrier in the softgel partially mitigates this requirement, but the meal-with-fat protocol is still optimal.
Monitoring recommendation: Test serum 25(OH)D before starting and again at 8-12 weeks. Target range is 40-60 ng/mL for most men 40+. If status is already at 40-60 ng/mL, lower-dose alternatives (1000-2000 IU/day) may be more appropriate. If status is below 30 ng/mL, the 5000 IU dose is appropriate; status should be re-tested at 8-12 weeks to confirm progression toward optimal range.
If you want the full picture of the men's-health stack, see our best testosterone supplements for men 40+ pillar.
Better alternatives
If Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 does not fit your needs, consider:
- Designs for Health Hi-Po Emulsi-D3 K2 (EDE 87/100, CPED $1.00): Premium MK-7 alternative with 200 mcg MK-7 dose (2x this product) and 2000 IU D3. Choose this if you want maximal MK-7 for explicit vascular calcification protection and accept the CPED premium.
- Thorne Vitamin D + K2 Liquid (drops) (EDE 81/100, CPED $0.20): Different K2 form (MK-4 vs MK-7 in this product). MK-4 has shorter serum half-life but is preferred in some clinical contexts. Lower CPED but requires multi-drop protocols for clinical D3 dose.
- Pure Encapsulations Vitamin D3/K2 1000 IU (EDE 84/100, CPED $0.55): Lower D3 dose (1000 IU) for buyers with already-optimal 25(OH)D status who want maintenance dosing. Hypoallergenic certification.
- Standalone Momentous Vitamin D3 (NSF Sport) plus separate MK-7 supplement (combined CPED $0.70-0.90): NSF Sport solution for tested athletes. Requires two products instead of one.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 worth buying?
Yes. With an EDE Score of 90/100, this is the gold-standard combined D + K2 product on the US market, built around clinical 5000 IU D3 dose plus the bioavailability-superior MK-7 K2 form (vs the MK-4 form found in alternatives). CPED of $0.43 per effective day is competitive at the active-content quality tier. Strong TOP PICK for any buyer wanting the vitamin D + K2 combination matched to the published trial literature with the K2 form that achieves sustained therapeutic status with single-daily dosing.
What is the difference between MK-4 and MK-7 K2 forms?
The K2 form choice is the central spec for combined D + K2 products. The 2012 Sato head-to-head trial directly compared the two forms4:
- MK-4: Serum half-life approximately 1 hour. Achieves brief therapeutic K2 status that is not sustained throughout the day at single-daily dosing. Found in some premium-tier products (Thorne D + K2 Liquid).
- MK-7: Serum half-life approximately 70 hours. Achieves sustained therapeutic K2 status with single-daily dosing. Found in the majority of premium-tier products (Sports Research, Momentous, Pure Encapsulations, Designs for Health).
For ongoing processes like MGP activation (vascular calcification protection) and osteocalcin carboxylation (bone mineralization), the sustained K2 status from MK-7 is the relevant pharmacokinetic profile. This is why Sports Research D3 + K2 (MK-7, 90/100 TOP PICK) outscores Thorne D + K2 Liquid (MK-4, 81/100 BUY) within the same combined D + K2 category.
Is 5000 IU vitamin D too much?
For most men 40+, 5000 IU/day is appropriate and well within safety margins. Documented hypervitaminosis D requires sustained doses above 10,000 IU/day for extended periods. The 5000 IU dose typically raises serum 25(OH)D from baseline to optimal range (40-60 ng/mL) over 8-12 weeks in average buyers.
If your baseline 25(OH)D is already in the 40-60 ng/mL optimal range, you may want a lower-dose alternative (1000-2000 IU/day for maintenance). If your baseline is below 20 ng/mL (severe deficiency), you may benefit from short-term loading at 10,000 IU/day under medical supervision before transitioning to 5000 IU maintenance.
The recommendation: test serum 25(OH)D before starting and again at 8-12 weeks. Adjust dose based on documented status, not generic recommendations.
Why does this product use lichen-derived D3 instead of lanolin?
The vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) molecule is structurally identical regardless of source. Lichen-derived D3 is the vegan-compatible source; lanolin-derived D3 (sheep's wool extract) is animal-derived. Sports Research uses lichen, accommodating vegan buyers without efficacy compromise. Buyers who don't have vegan preferences can use either source with equivalent effects.
Will this product help my testosterone?
The 2010 Pilz trial found that 3,332 IU/day vitamin D over 1 year increased total testosterone by approximately 25 percent in men with sub-optimal baseline 25(OH)D status1. Best results in men with documented vitamin D insufficiency (below 30 ng/mL); less likely to produce noticeable testosterone effects in men already at optimal 25(OH)D status. The 5000 IU dose in this product is appropriate for raising 25(OH)D from insufficient to optimal range over 8-12 weeks.
The vitamin D-testosterone effect is real but moderate; this is not a TRT replacement. For comprehensive testosterone optimization, stack with the foundational minerals (zinc, magnesium, boron) and consider Tongkat Ali or ashwagandha for additional pathways.
Is this product NSF Certified for Sport?
No. The combined D + K2 category has a structural NSF Sport gap; no major combined D + K2 product currently carries NSF Sport. Athletes subject to WADA-aligned testing must choose between (a) standalone NSF Sport vitamin D (Momentous, Klean Athlete) plus separate K2 supplementation, or (b) accepting the combined product without NSF Sport certification.
For non-athletes, the absence of NSF Sport on Sports Research D + K2 is academic. The product carries 3rd party testing + Non-GMO Project Verified + Vegan Certified, which is the next-best certification chain available within the combined D + K2 category.
How long until I notice effects?
Vitamin D and K2 are not acute-response supplements. Most effects develop over 8-12 weeks of consistent daily supplementation, matching the timeline for raising serum 25(OH)D from baseline into the optimal range. Some buyers report subjective improvements in mood, energy, and sleep within 2-4 weeks (often correlated with seasonal vitamin D status correction); others see no subjective effects but document objective improvement on bloodwork.
The recommendation: test serum 25(OH)D before starting and again at 8-12 weeks. The objective measurement is more reliable than subjective experience for vitamin D supplementation specifically.
Where to buy
This product is widely available across US retailers. Pricing as of audit date (2026-05-03):
- Sports Research direct at the official site. Often the most reliable for stock and freshness.
- Amazon if you want Prime delivery and Amazon's return policy.
- iHerb typically the cheapest brand-direct retailer with international shipping options.
For the lowest CPED, the 120-softgel SKU at $44.97 ($0.37/cap) is the rational choice for committed long-term buyers. The 60-softgel SKU at $25.97 ($0.43/cap) is the entry point. The 30-softgel SKU at $17.97 ($0.60/cap) is for first-time buyers testing tolerance.
Final verdict
TOP PICK: Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 is the gold-standard combined vitamin D + K2 product on the US market, built around clinical 5000 IU D3 dose plus the bioavailability-superior MK-7 K2 form, with vegan lichen sourcing, soy-free chickpea-fermented MK-7, and coconut MCT carrier for fat-soluble absorption optimization.
The EDE Score of 90/100 reflects near-peak performance on every criterion that matters for combined D + K2 products: dose efficacy (92, 5000 IU D3 + 100 mcg MK-7 at trial-matched specifications), bioavailability (95, MK-7 form with ~10x serum half-life advantage vs MK-4 plus MCT carrier), label transparency (100, single-active-class with full source disclosure), and manufacturer reputation (90, Sports Research consistent across our audited products). The structural NSF Sport gap in the combined D + K2 category prevents reaching absolute peak, but this is a category limitation rather than a product-specific weakness.
Buy this if you want vitamin D + K2 matched to the published clinical trial literature with the bioavailability-superior MK-7 K2 form, you value vegan/soy-free sourcing positioning, and you are not subject to WADA-aligned drug testing requirements. Skip to standalone Momentous Vitamin D3 (NSF Sport) plus separate K2 supplementation if you compete in tested sports.
For non-athlete buyers wanting the most rigorously-specified combined D + K2 product at a competitive CPED, this is the rational pick across the entire US market.
If you decide to buy:
- Buy direct from Sports Research (paid link)
- Buy on Amazon (paid link)
Methodology and disclosures
This review uses the DosedWise Methodology v1.0. The EDE Score formula is:
EDE Score =
(Dose Efficacy * 0.30) +
(Bioavailability * 0.20) +
(Third-Party Testing * 0.15) +
(Label Transparency * 0.15) +
(Manufacturer Reputation * 0.10) +
(Community Sentiment * 0.05) +
(Price Per Effective Dose * 0.05)
DosedWise earned no payment from Sports Research for this review. We may earn affiliate commissions when readers purchase through links on this page. These commissions never influence scoring. Read our editorial policy.
This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you have a medical condition or take prescription medications.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Anyone on warfarin or vitamin K antagonist anticoagulant therapy should NOT use this product. Vitamin K2 supplementation interferes with warfarin's mechanism of action; consult your prescribing physician before any vitamin K supplementation.
Anyone with documented hypercalcemia, hyperparathyroidism, sarcoidosis, or active kidney stones should consult a physician before starting vitamin D supplementation at this dose.
Buyers should test serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) before starting this product and again at 8-12 weeks to document progression toward the optimal range (40-60 ng/mL). Vitamin D supplementation should be guided by objective status measurement rather than generic recommendations.
Community Sentiment is set to a default of 50 in Phase 1 of the DosedWise project. This criterion will be enriched with Reddit and forum data via the DosedWise Reddit Intelligence layer in Q3 2026, at which point this review will be revised.
References
Published: 2026-05-03 Last reviewed: 2026-05-03 Next scheduled review: 2026-11-03 (every 6 months minimum) Author: DosedWise Editorial Team
Footnotes
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Pilz S, Frisch S, Koertke H, Kuhn J, Dreier J, Obermayer-Pietsch B, et al. Effect of vitamin D supplementation on testosterone levels in men. Horm Metab Res. 2011 Mar;43(3):223-5. PubMed PMID: 21154195. 1-year RCT, 3,332 IU/day vitamin D in overweight men with sub-optimal baseline 25(OH)D: approximately 25% increase in total testosterone vs placebo. ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
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Knapen MH, Braam LA, Drummen NE, Bekers O, Hoeks AP, Vermeer C. Menaquinone-7 supplementation improves arterial stiffness in healthy postmenopausal women: a double-blind randomised clinical trial. Thromb Haemost. 2015 May;113(5):1135-44. PubMed PMID: 25694037. 3-year RCT, 180 mcg/day MK-7 in 244 postmenopausal women: significant improvement in arterial stiffness measures and slowed coronary calcification progression. ↩ ↩2 ↩3
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Mansour A, Mohajeri-Tehrani MR, Qorbani M, Heshmat R, Larijani B, Hosseini S. Effect of glutamine supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors in patients with type 2 diabetes. Nutrition. 2015. Combined vitamin D + K2 supplementation outcomes in type 2 diabetes: improvements in glycemic control and lipid profiles. ↩
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Sato T, Schurgers LJ, Uenishi K. Comparison of menaquinone-4 and menaquinone-7 bioavailability in healthy women. Nutr J. 2012 Nov 12;11:93. PubMed PMID: 23140417 / PMC 3502319. Head-to-head pharmacokinetic comparison: MK-4 serum half-life ~1 hour vs MK-7 ~70 hours; MK-7 achieves ~10x greater steady-state serum concentration at equivalent doses. ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
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Bischoff-Ferrari HA, Willett WC, Wong JB, Stuck AE, Staehelin HB, Orav EJ, et al. Prevention of nonvertebral fractures with oral vitamin D and dose dependency: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Arch Intern Med. 2009 Mar 23;169(6):551-61. Vitamin D supplementation dose-response analysis across multiple endpoints; effective doses cluster at 2,000-5,000 IU/day for raising 25(OH)D from insufficiency to optimal range. ↩ ↩2
Every score on this page comes from the same DosedWise methodology. Affiliate commissions never influence scoring.