From the Guidelines
Vitamin K2 supplementation has shown no significant benefit in preventing cardiovascular calcification in most studies, with the exception of one study using Vitamin K1, which demonstrated a 56% reduction in thoracic aorta calcification progression 1. The role of Vitamin K2 in bone health and cardiovascular function is well-established, as it helps direct calcium to bones and prevents its buildup in arteries and soft tissues. The recommended daily intake for Vitamin K2 is approximately 100-200 micrograms for adults, with good dietary sources including fermented foods like natto, certain cheeses, egg yolks, organ meats, and grass-fed animal products. For those considering supplementation, MK-7 is the preferred form due to its longer half-life and better bioavailability compared to MK-4, with typical supplement doses ranging from 100-200 micrograms daily, taken with a meal containing fat to enhance absorption 1. However, the majority of clinical trials evaluating the effect of Vitamin K2 supplementation on cardiovascular calcification have shown no significant difference in outcomes, including CAC, TAC, or AVC progression 1. One notable exception is a study using Vitamin K1, which demonstrated a significant reduction in thoracic aorta calcification progression, highlighting the potential importance of Vitamin K1 in this context 1. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before supplementing with Vitamin K2, especially for those on blood-thinning medications like warfarin, as it may interfere with these medications. Key points to consider when evaluating Vitamin K2 supplementation include:
- The majority of studies have shown no significant benefit in preventing cardiovascular calcification
- Vitamin K1 may have a more significant impact on reducing thoracic aorta calcification progression
- Consultation with a healthcare provider is necessary before supplementing with Vitamin K2, especially for those on blood-thinning medications. In the context of real-life clinical medicine, it is crucial to prioritize the use of Vitamin K1 over Vitamin K2 for patients at risk of cardiovascular calcification, given the potential benefits demonstrated in recent studies 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Description: Pure Vita Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) and Vitamin K2 (Menatetrenone-MK4) work together to support bone helath, calcium absorption and heart health. They help maintain strong bones, immune function and proper calcium distribution for overall well-being. The main use of Vitamin K2 is to support:
- bone health
- calcium absorption
- heart health It helps maintain strong bones, immune function, and proper calcium distribution for overall well-being 2.
From the Research
Vitamin K2 Benefits
- Vitamin K2 may be a useful adjunct for the treatment of osteoporosis, along with vitamin D and calcium, rivaling bisphosphonate therapy without toxicity 3
- Vitamin K2 appears to inhibit arterial calcification and arterial stiffening, lowering the risk of vascular damage 4
- Vitamin K2 supplementation might improve bone quality and reduce fracture risk in osteoporotic patients, potentially enhancing the efficacy of calcium ± vitamin D 5
- Vitamin K2 may play a role in maintaining the bone mineral density and in reducing the incidence of fractures for postmenopausal women with osteoporosis 6
Vitamin K2 and Disease Prevention
- Vitamin K2 may significantly reduce morbidity and mortality in cardiovascular health by reducing vascular calcification 3
- Vitamin K2 appears promising in the areas of diabetes, cancer, and osteoarthritis 3
- Vitamin K2 supplementation may be useful for a number of chronic conditions that are afflicting North Americans as the population ages 3
- Vitamin K2 has been shown to have a positive correlation with improved health outcomes in diseases such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders and cancers 7
Vitamin K2 Supplementation
- An increased intake of vitamin K2 could be a means of lowering calcium-associated health risks 4
- Vitamin K2 supplementation may be required for bone and cardiovascular health 3
- The effect of vitamin K2 for postmenopausal women without osteoporosis had not been identified, and further high-quality RCTs with large sample size are needed to confirm the role of vitamin K2 in osteoporosis for postmenopausal women 6
- Establishing a Recommended Daily Intake for vitamin K2 could significantly enhance global health 7