Also known as: Menaquinone, MK-7
Vitamin K2 is a group of fat-soluble vitamins (menaquinones) that play a crucial role in calcium metabolism, directing calcium into bones and teeth while preventing arterial calcification. MK-7 is the most well-researched supplemental form.
Vitamin K2 refers to a family of menaquinones (MK-n) distinguished by the length of their isoprenoid side chain. The two most studied forms are MK-4 (found in animal products) and MK-7 (produced by bacterial fermentation, notably in natto — Japanese fermented soybeans). While both K1 and K2 serve as cofactors for gamma-glutamyl carboxylase, K2 has a significantly longer half-life (72 hours for MK-7 vs. 1–2 hours for K1) and reaches extra-hepatic tissues more effectively. K2 activates matrix Gla protein (MGP) in arterial walls, which is the most potent inhibitor of vascular calcification, and osteocalcin in bone, which binds calcium to hydroxyapatite. The Rotterdam Study demonstrated that high dietary K2 intake was associated with a 57% reduction in cardiovascular mortality. K2 is increasingly recognized as a critical partner to vitamin D3 in comprehensive bone and cardiovascular health strategies.
K2 activates matrix Gla protein (MGP), the strongest known inhibitor of vascular calcification. The Rotterdam Study found that the highest K2 intake tertile had 57% lower cardiovascular mortality.
K2 carboxylates osteocalcin, enabling it to bind calcium in bone tissue. MK-7 supplementation has been shown to reduce age-related bone loss and decrease fracture risk.
With a meal containing fat
Often combined with vitamin D3 supplements. MK-7 requires several weeks to reach steady-state levels due to its long half-life.
With a fat-containing meal, ideally alongside vitamin D3
The 3-year Knapen trial used 180 µg MK-7 daily and showed significant improvements in bone and vascular parameters.
Long-acting bone and cardiovascular support
Therapeutic bone density doses (Japanese protocol)
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!
Thorne
NOW Foods
Nature Made
NÀDARRA
We may earn a commission through affiliate links. This never influences our evidence grades or rankings.
€35.99
€17.49
€9.99
€24.90