Vitamin K2 Benefits for Bone, Cardiovascular, Energy Metabolism, and More
Vitamin K is found in two forms. Most are aware of Vitamin K1, which is found in dark, leafy greens. It supports healthy blood clotting, helping ensure the blood is neither too thick nor too thin.
Vitamin K2 is found in eggs, organ meats, and dairy products.
Most recommendations regarding the amount of vitamin K required for health benefits are limited to its role in blood clotting. To experience benefits for bone health, cardiovascular health, energy metabolism, and other outcomes, higher doses are needed.
Vitamin K1 is generally sufficient in most diets. Concerns regarding Vitamin K1 usually center on excessive intake and potential interference with blood-thinning medications. K1 is usually readily available to meet clotting needs in the liver.
For whole-body health, Vitamin K2 is more beneficial. The articles below discuss the wide-ranging benefits of Vitamin K2 for whole-body health.
The best form of vitamin K2 is Vitamin K2-7 (MK-7; menaquinone-7). This is a “longer-chain” version of K2 that remains in the body for a more extended period than other forms.
Because it stays in the body for 24-72 hours, it is more available to activate vitamin K2-dependent proteins throughout the whole body – and that is how you get such wide-reaching benefits beyond bone health!
Those taking blood-thinning medications should have their PT/INR checked routinely by their physician if taking K2. Vitamin K1 is not recommended for those on blood-thinning medications.
- A healthy gut microbiome (appropriate levels and diversity of bacteria) will also provide some K2-7.
- My favorite probiotic supplements include Megasporebiotic by Microbiome Labs, TrubifidoPRO by Master Supplement, and Theralac by Master Supplements, Inc.
- For K2 supplementation, I use Vitamin K2 (MK7) by Doctor Alex Supplements, Megaquinone K2-7 by Microbiome Labs, or, preferably, Vitamin ADK Complete, which provides the synergy.
Related Articles to Vitamin K2 Benefits:
- The D3 and Vitamin K2 Connection – What to Test, How Much to Take of Each
- K2 Benefits for Neuropathy – A Preliminary Study
- Arterosil Benefits – Support for Cardiovascular Health
- The Importance of Vitamin K2 for Bone Health
- Vitamin K2 Benefits for Cardiovascular Health
- New Insights on the Anti-Aging Effects of Vitamin K2
- Vitamin ADK Benefits: Synergy for Immunity, Bone Health, Gut Integrity, and More