Best Vitamin K2 Supplement

Vitamin K is an essential vitamin that was discovered in 1929. At that time, it was declared a supporter of blood clotting and healthy bones, and remains an essential vitamin for the human body to this day. There are two forms of vitamin K: K1 and K2. For the purposes of this article, we will discuss the origins, functions, benefits, and deficiency symptoms of vitamin K2. Keep in mind that the best vitamin K2 supplement could be widely beneficial for your circulatory system, bone health, and mental health as you follow along.

What Is Vitamin K2?

Vitamin K refers to a group of fat-soluble vitamins which the human body requires in order to produce an essential protein known as prothrombin. Prothrombin promotes blood clotting and regulates bone metabolism within the body. Vitamin K2 (menaquinone) occurs in small animal proteins and fermented foods. The bacteria in the human stomach also produce small quantities of menaquinone. 

Vitamin K1 vs. Vitamin K2

While both types of vitamin K have a phytyl side chain, vitamin K2 features isoprenoid side chains as well. Vitamin K1 may be the primary form of vitamin K, but studies suggest that the human body absorbs 10 times more vitamin K2 than vitamin K1, making it an essential nutrient in any diet. 

It has been found that bacteria in the stomach can synthesize vitamin K1 into Vitamin K2, given that dietary fats like butter or plant oils are present in the body to properly break down vitamin K1. Vitamin K1 accumulates in the heart, liver, and pancreas, whereas vitamin K2 occurs in high concentrations in the kidneys and brain. It should be noted that sources of such vitamins differ. Vitamin K1 is often found in dark leafy greens, and vitamin K2 is most commonly found in most meat products. 

Functions of Vitamin K2

As mentioned earlier, the human body requires both types of vitamin K in order to produce the protein prothrombin. Vitamin K also aids in the facilitation of energy production in the mitochondria of cells. Vitamin K2 in itself has a uniquely diverse range of functions in the human body as opposed to vitamin K1, which is primarily involved in blood coagulation. Vitamin K has many properties of an antioxidant, meaning that the vitamin, in both forms, protects cellular membranes from damage due to excess free radicals. While vitamin K2 plays a crucial role in blood clotting and wound healing, it has a number of other health benefits that occur naturally.

Health Benefits of Vitamin K2

Many medical professionals and doctors alike have found that vitamin K2 plays a crucial role in heart health, bone health, mental health, dental health, and cancer treatment. The roles of vitamin K2 in these areas have been noted below.

Heart Health

Vitamin K2 supplements may lower the risk of cardiovascular damage, prevent cardiovascular diseases, and support overall heart health. Vitamin K2 has been found to activate a protein in the body that prevents calcium deposits from forming in the walls of blood vessels. The build-up of these calcium deposits in blood vessels is one of the major catalysts of heart disease, hence the importance of quality vitamin K2 supplements in a healthy diet. 

Bone Health

Vitamin K2 is known to promote healthy bone density in relation to minerals by carboxylating osteocalcin. This particular protein binds calcium to bones. Vitamin K2 has been found to play a key role in both preventing and combating the presence/effects of osteoporosis.  

Mental Health

High blood glucose levels have been found to increase the likelihood of a person developing anxiety, depression, and, in some instances, cognitive impairment. Vitamin K2 has been found, in some studies, to normalize blood glucose levels and reduce the symptoms of both depression and anxiety. 

Dental Health

Based on the vital role that vitamin K2 plays in the human body’s bone metabolism, it can be assumed that osteocalcin (when activated by vitamin K2 supplements) can positively impact dental health, as well as bone health, heart health, and mental health. 

Cancer Treatment

Vitamin K2 maintains antioxidant properties that can help to prevent cancer. Studies have suggested that vitamin K2 may suppress genetic processes that can lead to tumor growth. While more long-term research may be needed, there is sufficient evidence to suggest that vitamin K2 does play a role in preventing tumor growth. 

Trusted Vitamin K2 Supplement Providers

It’s important to trust, understand, and be knowledgeable of the manufacturing processes and ingredients used in your supplements—before taking them. With this in mind, we have included two of the most respected providers of the best vitamin K2 supplements. After all, the supplement is an extension of the integrity of the provider. We’ve found that these providers only rely on natural sources, and steer clear of additives to their supplements.

Ortho Molecular Products Vitamin K2 180 mcg

Ortho Molecular offers a naturally-sourced vitamin K2 supplement in the quantity of 60 capsules. Ortho Molecular has been partnering with distinguished healthcare practitioners and delivering evidence-based, high-quality nutritional supplements that constantly deliver results for over 30 years. Ortho Molecular is known for its commitment to quality and efficacy, and they do not take their customers' trust for granted. They truly provide vitamin K2 supplements of the highest quality and are available today.

Klaire Labs Vitamin K2

Klaire Labs has been in business since 1969, and offers high-quality vitamin K2 supplements—naturally sourced as MK-7. This supplement is vegetarian, and comes in a quantity of 60 capsules. This supplement is free of almost all allergens, and only requires one capsule per day for full benefits and effects. Klaire Labs was founded on the premise that clean, pharmaceutical-grade formulations should be the model for nutritional supplements.

Ready to Learn More?

Purety Family Medical Clinic is a family-owned and family-operated clinic that practices holistic, functional, and integrative medicine in Santa Barbara, CA. Contact a specialist today for questions regarding introducing a vitamin K2 supplement to your diet, or for inquiries about our trusted providers of the best vitamin K2 supplements. We hope that you’ve found this article helpful in your search, and look forward to assisting you in your journey toward peak physical condition!