Vitamin K2 MK7

What is vitamin K and why is it important for the body?

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a central role in blood coagulation, bone health, and cardiovascular function. The name comes from the German word Koagulation, as it was first discovered as a key factor in blood clotting. There are two main forms of the vitamin: K1 (phylloquinone), which is primarily found in green leafy vegetables, and K2 (menaquinone), which is produced by bacteria in the gut and found in fermented foods like natto and certain cheeses. While K1 mainly affects blood coagulation, K2 has also been shown to be crucial for calcium metabolism, meaning it helps ensure that calcium is directed to the right places in the body.

What is the difference between K1 and K2?

K1 is the form that primarily acts in the liver and participates in the production of coagulation factors, which prevents bleeding. K2, on the other hand, mainly affects the skeleton, blood vessels, and heart by activating specific proteins that regulate calcium distribution in the body. K2 ensures that calcium is stored in the skeleton where it is needed, while preventing calcium from being deposited in blood vessel walls and soft tissues. Thus, K2 contributes to stronger bones and helps prevent arteriosclerosis. In healthy individuals, K2 does not affect blood clotting in a way that makes it 'thicker'; rather, it acts in a regulatory and protective manner.

Which form of K2 is best – MK4 or MK7?

There are several different forms of K2, but the most common are MK4 and MK7. MK4 has a short half-life in the body and therefore requires higher and more frequent dosing to maintain effective levels. MK7, which is used in Vitamin K2 MK7, has a significantly longer half-life and high bioavailability, making it the most effective and well-documented choice for long-term physiological effect. MK7 remains in the body for up to three days, ensuring continuous activation of the proteins that regulate calcium transport.

How does K2 work in the body?

K2 activates two key proteins: osteocalcin and matrix Gla-protein (MGP). Osteocalcin binds calcium to the skeleton, thereby strengthening the bone structure, while MGP prevents calcium from being deposited in the walls of blood vessels. When these proteins are inactive due to K2 deficiency, calcium can end up in the wrong places, leading to weaker bones and an increased risk of calcification in the vessels. With sufficient levels of K2, the body can utilize calcium effectively and safely, protecting both bones and the heart.

What signs may indicate a deficiency in vitamin K?

A vitamin K deficiency can manifest as easily bleeding gums, bruising, slow wound healing, or brittle bones. Since K2 is primarily found in fermented foods and certain animal products, deficiency is more common among individuals following a plant-based diet or those with impaired gut flora. Prolonged use of antibiotics can also reduce the bacterial production of K2 in the gut.

How does K2 work with vitamin D?

Vitamin D increases the absorption of calcium from the intestine, while K2 ensures that this calcium goes to the bones and not to the blood vessels. Together, they create a synergistic interaction: vitamin D increases calcium availability, and K2 directs the calcium to the right place. Therefore, it is often recommended to take K2 together with vitamin D – especially if you are taking higher doses of vitamin D as a supplement. The combination contributes to stronger bones, healthier vessels, and a balanced calcium metabolism.

Is Vitamin K2 in cis form or trans form?

Our Vitamin K2 MK7 is in 100% trans form, which is the natural and biologically active form of the vitamin. This is an important distinction, as only the trans form of K2 MK7 has the three-dimensional structure that the body can recognize and use effectively to activate the important K2-dependent proteins, including osteocalcin (for bone structure) and matrix Gla-protein (MGP) (for vascular protection). The other form, the cis form, may occur in synthetically produced or unstable K2 supplements, but it lacks biological activity and does not contribute to the health benefits associated with vitamin K2.

What does Vitamin K2 MK7 contain and why is it particularly effective?

Each capsule contains 200 µg of vitamin K2 in the form of menaquinone-7 (MK7), corresponding to 267% of the daily reference intake (DRI). This form is naturally derived and has the highest possible bioavailability. MK7 is particularly effective because it remains in the body for a long time, activating osteocalcin and MGP for an extended period, thereby providing continuous protection for both the bone structure and the cardiovascular system.

When and how should Vitamin K2 MK7 be taken?

Take 1 capsule daily in the morning with a meal that contains fat, as K2 is fat-soluble. For those who have difficulty swallowing capsules, it can be easily opened and the contents sprinkled on food or mixed into a drink. The product is gentle and can be used year-round, especially in combination with Vitamin D3 and a magnesium supplement for optimal balance.

Can you take too much K2?

K2 vitamin has a very high safety profile, and no negative effects have been reported at normal doses. Since K2 is natural and works through the body's own enzymatic systems, its activity is regulated as needed. However, individuals using blood-thinning medications (e.g., warfarin) should consult their doctor before taking vitamin K, as it may affect the dosage adjustment of these medications.

What health effects can I expect from regular intake of K2 MK7?

Regular use of Vitamin K2 MK7 may contribute to stronger and denser bone structure, reduced risk of bone fractures, healthier blood vessels, and better heart health. Many also experience improved dental health as K2 affects the mineralization of teeth. K2 has also been shown to have a positive impact on insulin sensitivity and mitochondrial energy metabolism, making it an important supplement for overall vitality.

Does vitamin K2 affect coagulation?

Vitamin K2 is involved in the same biochemical system as K1, but its main function is to activate proteins that regulate calcium transport and bone health, not to increase blood coagulation as K1 does. In healthy individuals, K2 does not affect blood clotting in a way that makes it 'thicker'; rather, it appears to be regulatory and protective.