Q: What is vitamin K2 and how is it different from vitamin K1?
A: Vitamin K2 (menaquinone) and vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) are both forms of vitamin K, but they have different roles in the body. Vitamin K1 is primarily involved in blood clotting and is found in leafy green vegetables. Vitamin K2 is primarily involved in calcium metabolism - it activates proteins that direct calcium to bones and teeth while preventing calcium from depositing in soft tissues like arteries. This makes K2 essential for both bone health and cardiovascular wellness. This product provides K2, not K1.
Q: What is MK-7 and why is it better than MK-4?
A: MK-7 (menaquinone-7) and MK-4 (menaquinone-4) are both forms of vitamin K2, but MK-7 has significant advantages. MK-7 has a much longer half-life in the body - approximately 72 hours compared to just 1 hour for MK-4. This means MK-7 stays active in your body much longer, providing sustained vitamin K2 activity throughout the day from a single daily dose. MK-7 is also better absorbed and more bioavailable than MK-4, making it more effective at lower doses.
Q: What is natto and why is it used as a source of K2?
A: Natto is a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. The fermentation process produces exceptionally high levels of vitamin K2 in the form of menaquinone-7 (MK-7). Natto has been consumed in Japan for over 1,000 years and is one of the richest natural sources of K2 MK-7. Using natto-derived K2 ensures a natural, plant-based source that is highly bioavailable and suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Q: How much should I take?
A: The suggested use is 1 capsule daily, which provides 120mcg of vitamin K2 MK-7. This is an effective dose for supporting bone health and cardiovascular wellness. Some people may need more or less depending on their individual needs, vitamin D intake, and calcium supplementation. Consult your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage for you, especially if you're taking other supplements or medications.
Q: Should I take vitamin K2 with vitamin D?
A: Yes, vitamin K2 and vitamin D3 work synergistically and are often recommended together. Vitamin D3 increases calcium absorption from the diet, while vitamin K2 directs that calcium to bones and teeth rather than soft tissues like arteries. Taking D3 without K2 can increase calcium absorption without proper direction, potentially leading to calcium accumulating in the wrong places. The combination ensures calcium is both absorbed (thanks to D3) and properly distributed (thanks to K2).
Q: Can I take this if I'm on blood thinners?
A: Consult your healthcare professional before taking vitamin K2 if you're on blood-thinning medications like warfarin (Coumadin). Vitamin K can interfere with these medications because they work by blocking vitamin K's role in blood clotting. While K2 is primarily involved in calcium metabolism rather than blood clotting, it can still affect anticoagulant medications. Your doctor may need to monitor your INR levels and adjust your medication dosage if you take vitamin K2.
Q: How does vitamin K2 support bone health?
A: Vitamin K2 activates a protein called osteocalcin, which is produced by bone cells. Osteocalcin binds calcium to the bone matrix, incorporating it into bone structure. Without adequate vitamin K2, osteocalcin remains inactive and cannot effectively bind calcium to bones, even if you're getting enough calcium and vitamin D. This is why K2 is essential for bone mineralization and maintaining healthy bone density.
Q: How does vitamin K2 support cardiovascular health?
A: Vitamin K2 activates a protein called matrix Gla-protein (MGP), which prevents calcium from depositing in arterial walls and other soft tissues. When MGP is inactive (due to insufficient K2), calcium can accumulate in arteries, leading to arterial calcification and stiffening. By activating MGP, vitamin K2 keeps calcium out of arteries and supports healthy, flexible blood vessels. This is why K2 is important for cardiovascular wellness.
Q: Is this suitable for vegans and vegetarians?
A: Yes, this vitamin K2 supplement is 100% plant-based and suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. The K2 MK-7 is derived from natto (fermented soybeans), which is a plant source. The capsules are made from hypromellose (vegetable cellulose), not gelatin. The product is also free from gluten, dairy, soy, wheat, eggs, peanuts, and shellfish.
Q: How long does it take to see results?
A: Individual responses vary. Vitamin K2 works at the cellular level to activate proteins involved in calcium metabolism, so effects may not be immediately noticeable. For bone health benefits, consistent use over several months is typically needed. For cardiovascular support, the benefits develop gradually with ongoing supplementation. If you're taking K2 to address specific health concerns, work with your healthcare provider to monitor progress over time.
Q: Can I take this with calcium supplements?
A: Yes, vitamin K2 can be taken with calcium supplements. In fact, K2 helps ensure that the calcium you're taking is properly directed to your bones and teeth rather than soft tissues. For optimal bone health, the combination of calcium, vitamin D3, and vitamin K2 is often recommended - calcium provides the building material, D3 ensures it's absorbed, and K2 ensures it goes to the right places.
Q: Why is this product made in Canada?
A: This vitamin K2 is manufactured in Canada in a GMP-compliant (Good Manufacturing Practices) facility with rigorous quality control standards. Canadian manufacturing ensures adherence to strict regulatory oversight and quality standards. The product is also approved by Health Canada (NPN 80091254), indicating it has been reviewed and approved for safety, efficacy, and quality.
