Ingredient Information
Summary
Vitamin K2 is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in supporting normal blood clotting and maintaining healthy bones. It helps direct calcium to the bones and teeth, preventing it from depositing in the arteries. This vitamin is found in fermented foods and animal products like cheese and egg yolks. Individuals who may benefit from Vitamin K2 include those looking to support bone health, particularly postmenopausal women and older adults. It may also be beneficial for people with diets low in fermented foods. As always, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement to ensure it aligns with your health needs.
Key Facts
- Type: Vitamin
- Natural source: Fermented foods, animal products
- Typical supplemental dose: 45-200 µg, 60-267% NRV
- Used for: Contributes to normal blood clotting and bone health
- First discovered: 1929
What Is Vitamin K2?
Vitamin K2, also known as menaquinone, is a fat-soluble vitamin with the empirical formula C31H40O2. It belongs to the vitamin K family, which is crucial for blood clotting and bone health. Typically, Vitamin K2 is found in a yellow crystalline form. It is naturally sourced from fermented foods like natto, cheese, and certain animal products, or it can be synthesised through bacterial fermentation. Vitamin K2 contributes to the maintenance of normal bones by activating proteins that bind calcium, ensuring it is deposited in bones and teeth rather than arteries.
How It Works In The Body
Vitamin K2 helps direct calcium to the right places in your body, like your bones and teeth, and away from areas where it shouldn’t build up, such as your arteries. It activates proteins that support bone health and cardiovascular function (heart and blood vessels). This contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and normal blood clotting.
Safety & Interactions
- Vitamin K2 is generally considered safe when consumed within recommended amounts.
- Individuals on anticoagulant medication, such as warfarin, should consult a healthcare professional before taking Vitamin K2, as it may affect blood clotting.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women should seek medical advice before supplementing with Vitamin K2.
- There is no specific UK upper intake level for Vitamin K2, but it should be consumed as part of a balanced diet.
- Excessive intake of Vitamin K2 is unlikely to cause harm, but it is best to adhere to recommended dosages.
Always consult your health practitioner before taking nutritional supplements, especially if you are taking medication or are under medical supervision. You should not take supplements as a substitute for a varied balanced diet or healthy lifestyle.
FAQs
What is Vitamin K2?
Vitamin K2 is a fat-soluble vitamin that contributes to normal blood clotting and the maintenance of normal bones.
How can I get Vitamin K2 in my diet?
Vitamin K2 is found in fermented foods like natto, cheese, and some meats. Supplements are also available.
Is Vitamin K2 safe to take with other supplements?
Vitamin K2 is generally safe, but consult a healthcare professional if you’re taking anticoagulants or other medications.
References
1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34785587/
Vitamin K2—a neglected player in cardiovascular health: strongly associated with improved cardiovascular outcomes.
2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10084986/
The biological responses of vitamin K2: effectively stabilises mobile calcium, reduces artery calcium levels, inhibits calcium deposition in blood vessel walls, and prevents occurrence of related disorders.
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23590754/
The role of menaquinones (vitamin K2) in human health.
4. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8483258/
Emerging evidence highlights how Vitamin K2 supports health beyond bones and heart.
Our products that contain Vitamin K2
Where next?
Information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before making dietary changes or starting new supplements.