Vitamin K2 is an often overlooked micronutrient that plays a critical role in regulating calcium deposition in the body. In this article we shall discuss the extensive research showing how vitamin K2 can improve cardiovascular health, bone health, dental health and much more. Understand why vitamin K2 deficiency is so common and how supplementing with it can have profound health benefits.
The Cardiovascular Benefits of Vitamin K2
Multiple studies have demonstrated that vitamin K2 significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease:
- The Epic Study found a 9% lower risk of cardiovascular disease for every 10 mcg of daily vitamin K2 intake. Higher intakes were associated with up to a 50% reduction in cardiovascular risk.
- Patients with low vitamin K2 intake were shown to have extensive coronary artery calcification, while those with high intake had minimal calcification.
- 180 mcg/day of vitamin K2 not only reduced cardiovascular risk but also improved bone density and strength.
Vitamin K2 improves the elasticity of blood vessels by preventing calcium deposition in artery walls. This leads to lower systolic blood pressure and higher diastolic blood pressure. Vitamin K2 supplements have been shown to reduce the progression of coronary artery calcification compared to untreated patients.
Overall, vitamin K2 helps maintain flexible and healthy blood vessels, reducing risk of cardiovascular events.
Vitamin K2’s Role in Bone and Joint Health
The cardiologist explains how vitamin K2 activates matrix proteins like osteocalcin, which incorporate calcium into bones. Without enough vitamin K2, calcium does not properly mineralize bone, leading to osteopenia. Studies confirm vitamin K2 supplements can improve bone density and reduce fractures.
Vitamin K2 likely also prevents joint diseases like osteoarthritis by supporting healthy bone matrix proteins.
Other Benefits of Vitamin K2
Research suggests vitamin K2 may also:
- Improve insulin sensitivity and pancreatic function, helping regulate insulin secretion
- Potentially reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by supporting proper vasodilation in the brain
- Lower the risk of prostate cancer progression and spread
- Prevent calcification of blood vessels in kidney failure patients
- Support fertility health
- Ensure proper facial development in children
Vitamin K2’s Critical Role in Dental Health
The doctor explains that vitamin K2 is highly concentrated in saliva, where it activates proteins like dentin to support dental health. Those with adequate vitamin K2 tend to have much lower rates of cavities and dental decay. Vitamin K2 deficiency is associated with improper facial bone development and misaligned teeth in children.
Preventing vitamin K2 deficiency may be a key way to ensure good lifelong dental health.
Optimizing Vitamin K2 Levels
Some of the best sources of vitamin K2 include:
- Fermented soybean dish natto
- Hard cheeses like gouda
- Dairy products like kefir and yogurt
- Organ meats like liver
- Egg yolks
While vitamin D helps absorb calcium, it does not direct where that calcium goes. Vitamin K2 plays that role, preventing calcium from depositing where it shouldn’t. That’s why calcium and vitamin D supplements alone are insufficient.
Vitamin K2 Is Essential for Cardiovascular and Bone Health
Vitamin K2 is an underappreciated nutrient that can significantly improve cardiovascular and bone health, dental health, regulate insulin and potentially even reduce cancer risk. While few people get enough vitamin K2 from dietary sources alone, supplements can help achieve optimal levels.
Given the extensive research on its health benefits, vitamin K2 supplementation may be one of the most impactful steps you can take to improve long-term wellbeing.
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