The Significance of Menaquinone-7 (MK-7) in Vitamin K for Maintaining Strong Health as You Grow Older
Overview
Vitamin K is a supplement that is often misunderstood. While some people are unaware of its benefits, others believe it is only useful for addressing bleeding disorders. However, vitamin K plays a crucial role in anti-aging and overall health beyond clotting issues.
Today, we will explore the significance of vitamin K, its various forms, and why it is essential for your well-being. Additionally, we will discuss how different types of vitamin K impact your health and ways to enhance your dietary intake for long-term vitality.
What Is Vitamin K?
Vitamin K is a group of fat-soluble vitamins crucial for blood clotting, bone health, and cardiovascular function. Its name originates from the German word "koagulation," as its role in blood clotting was first reported in a German medical journal.
Vitamin K acts as a cofactor for carboxylation reactions in vitamin K-dependent proteins. Essentially, it assists these proteins in performing their functions effectively, ensuring proper body processes and preventing health issues.
Three Types of Vitamin K
Vitamin K exists in three primary forms:
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Vitamin K1 (Phylloquinone): Found in plant foods like green leafy vegetables, vitamin K1 is vital for blood clotting and preventing excessive bleeding.
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Vitamin K2 (Menaquinone): Comprising various compounds, vitamin K2 is synthesized by bacteria and supports bone and cardiovascular health. Among its forms, MK-7 is known for its superior bioavailability and multiple health benefits.
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Vitamin K3 (Menadione): A synthetic form of vitamin K, K3 is not recommended for dietary supplements due to its potential toxicity.
Which Vitamin K is Best For Health?
Among the vitamin K2 forms, MK-7 stands out for its extended half-life and efficient absorption in the body. Its unique structure allows it to support physiological processes related to blood clotting, bone metabolism, and cardiovascular health.
Health Benefits of MK-7
MK-7 offers a range of health benefits, including:
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Enhanced heart and cardiovascular function by preventing calcium buildup in arteries and regulating blood clotting.
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Improved bone mineral density and reduced fracture risk by supporting bone health.
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Anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to overall health and well-being.
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Promotion of brain health and cognitive function through various mechanisms.
These benefits highlight the importance of incorporating MK-7 into your diet or supplementation routine to support optimal health.
Why You Don't Get Enough MK-7
Adequate intake of MK-7 can be challenging due to factors like dietary preferences, gut health, age-related changes, medications, and underlying health conditions. These factors may hinder your ability to absorb sufficient MK-7, emphasizing the need for supplementation in many cases.
How to Use MK-7 Supplements
Studies recommend supplementing with at least 50mcg of MK-7 daily to experience its health benefits. Choosing a high-quality supplement like K2VITAL® DELTA Vitamin K2 ensures optimal absorption and utilization in the body, supporting various aspects of your health.
Safety and Recommended Daily Intake
The recommended daily intake of MK-7 is 120mcg for men and 90mcg for women. However, these values are based on clotting factors, and higher doses may be necessary to achieve additional health benefits related to bone and cardiovascular support.
Summary
Vitamin K, particularly MK-7, plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health, with benefits for bone strength, cardiovascular function, inflammation reduction, and brain health. While dietary sources like fermented foods provide some MK-7, supplementation may be necessary due to various factors affecting absorption. Choosing a reputable supplement containing K2VITAL® DELTA Vitamin K2 can help you achieve optimal health outcomes.