Vitamin K2 is key to the body's internal balance, acting as a bridge between the health of bones and blood vessels. At the same time, Vitamin K2 directs calcium, providing strength to bones and flexibility to blood vessels.
Vitamin K2 (Menaquinone) Description
Vitamin K2, especially in the form of menaquinone-7 (MK-7), is a vitamin that has positive effects on bone health, cardiovascular health and various other conditions. This vitamin is involved in the functioning of proteins such as osteocalcin and the Gla protein in bone structure, which facilitates calcium deposition in bones, increases bone density and reduces the risk of fractures. It also reduces the risk of heart disease by preventing vascular calcification, promotes dental health and, according to some research, may inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Vitamin K2 is found in fermented foods, some cheeses, egg yolks and meat products, but supplements may also be preferred to get enough.
Health Effects of Vitamin K2
Vitamin K2 is a very beneficial vitamin for bone and cardiovascular health.
In terms of skeletal health, vitamin K2 helps bone formation. It binds calcium to bones, making them stronger and reducing the risk of bone fractures. Studies have shown that Vitamin K2 supplementation reduces bone loss, especially in postmenopausal women, and makes bones stronger.
Vitamin K2 is also important for cardiovascular health. It reduces the risk of heart disease by preventing hardening of the heart and blood vessels. Studies have shown that people who take enough vitamin K2 have a significantly lower risk of heart disease. Vitamin K2 supplementation has also been shown to improve cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women.
Vitamin K2 also has the ability to reduce inflammation. It maintains health by reducing inflammation in the body.
As a result, vitamin K2 protects bone health, strengthens cardiovascular health and reduces inflammation. Taking vitamin K2 is recommended to achieve these benefits.
Scientific Statistics on Vitamin K2
Vitamin K2 is known for its effects on bone health, cardiovascular health and several other health conditions. Here are some important statistics and findings about this vitamin:
Bone Health:
Vitamin K2 has been shown to significantly increase bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women. An analysis of 16 different control group comparative studies (RCTs), including 6,425 participants, showed that vitamin K2 supplementation resulted in a significant improvement in lumbar spine bone mineral density. Furthermore, an analysis of 19 RCTs included 6,759 participants and found that vitamin K2 significantly increased vertebral BMD in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. The results from the studies have a high level of reliability.
Fracture Rate:
The same meta-analysis showed that vitamin K2 supplementation reduced the fracture rate. The overall study showed a significant reduction in fracture rate with vitamin K2 supplementation.
Cardiovascular Health:
Higher doses of vitamin K2 have been associated with a reduced risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). A prospective group follow-up study found that vitamin K2 intake reduced the risk of CHD.
Security:
Side effect analysis from a pooled review of multiple studies showed higher rates of adverse reactions in the vitamin K2 group, but no serious adverse events related to vitamin K2 supplementation were reported. This highlights that a safer and more effective supportive approach would be to recommend vitamin K2 supplements in selected individuals after appropriate personalization with expert advice rather than randomization.
Things to Consider When Using Vitamin K2
Things to consider when using vitamin K2 (menaquinone):
Interaction with Blood Thinners:
Vitamin K2 should be used with caution, especially in people taking blood thinners such as warfarin. Even low doses of vitamin K2 can alter the effect of blood thinners. It is therefore recommended that people taking blood thinners avoid taking vitamin K2 supplements.
People with Kidney Disease:
People with chronic kidney disease should use vitamin K2 supplements with caution.
Safety and Dosage:
Studies on the safety of vitamin K2 have shown no harmful effects even at high doses. However, it is safe to use at recommended doses with individualized approaches.
Side Effects: Vitamin K2 supplements are generally well tolerated. However, some people may experience stomach and intestinal problems. Such side effects can usually be managed by reducing the dose or changing the supplement form.
Interaction with Other Medicines:
Vitamin K2 does not have serious interactions with other medicines. However, it is recommended to consult a health professional before using a new supplement, taking into account existing medications and health status.
Bibliography:
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