From the Research
Vitamin K2 plays a crucial role in managing arterial plaque by preventing calcium from depositing in arteries while directing it to bones where it belongs.
Role of Vitamin K2 in Arterial Plaque Management
The most recent and highest quality study on this topic is 1, which suggests that supplementation with vitamin K2 and D3 may slow down the calcification process in patients with severe coronary artery calcification.
- The study hypothesizes that supplementation with vitamins K2 and D3 will slow down the calcification process, which is a strong predictor of acute myocardial infarction and cardiovascular mortality.
- The study uses a multicentre and double-blinded placebo-controlled design, with 400 men and women with CAC score ≥ 400 randomized to treatment with vitamin K2 (720 µg/day) and vitamin D3 (25 µg/day) or placebo treatment for 2 years.
- The primary outcome is progression in CAC score from baseline to follow-up at 2 years, and secondary outcomes include coronary plaque composition and cardiac events.
Mechanism of Action
Vitamin K2 activates matrix Gla protein (MGP), which inhibits calcium crystal formation in blood vessels and prevents arterial calcification.
- Without sufficient vitamin K2, calcium can accumulate in arterial walls, contributing to plaque formation and arterial stiffness.
- Vitamin K2 works synergistically with vitamin D3, so ensuring adequate levels of both nutrients is recommended.
Supplementation Recommendations
For those concerned about arterial health, supplementation with vitamin K2 (particularly the MK-7 form) at doses of 100-200 mcg daily may be beneficial.
- This supplement is generally well-tolerated and can be taken with food for better absorption.
- Those on blood thinners like warfarin should consult their healthcare provider before supplementing with vitamin K2, as it may interfere with these medications.
- The mechanism behind vitamin K2's effectiveness involves its ability to carboxylate MGP and other vitamin K-dependent proteins, enabling them to bind calcium and prevent inappropriate calcification in soft tissues like arteries, as supported by 2 and 3.