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 serve different primary roles. Vitamin K1 is mainly 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 as MK-7, not K1.
Q: What is MK-7 and why is it the preferred form of K2?
A: MK-7 (menaquinone-7) is the most bioavailable and longest-lasting form of vitamin K2. It has a half-life of approximately 72 hours in the body, compared to just 1 hour for MK-4. This means a single daily capsule of MK-7 provides sustained vitamin K2 activity throughout the day and night. MK-7 is also better absorbed from the digestive tract and more effectively incorporated into tissues than other K2 forms, making it the preferred choice for bone and cardiovascular support.
Q: What is natto and why is it used as the K2 source?
A: Natto is a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. The fermentation process naturally produces exceptionally high levels of vitamin K2 in the MK-7 form. 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 with excellent bioavailability, suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Q: How does vitamin K2 direct calcium to bones?
A: Vitamin K2 activates two key proteins through a process called carboxylation. First, it activates osteocalcin — a protein produced by bone cells that binds calcium to the bone matrix, incorporating it into bone structure. Second, it activates matrix Gla-protein (MGP), which prevents calcium from depositing in arterial walls and soft tissues. Without adequate K2, both proteins remain inactive: osteocalcin cannot bind calcium to bones, and MGP cannot prevent arterial calcification. K2 essentially acts as the "traffic director" for calcium in the body.
Q: How much should I take and when?
A: The suggested use is 1 capsule daily, providing 120mcg of vitamin K2 MK-7. Because MK-7 has a 72-hour half-life, timing is flexible — you can take it at any time of day. However, since K2 is fat-soluble, taking it with a meal containing some fat may enhance absorption. Consult your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage for your individual needs, especially if you're taking other supplements or medications.
Q: Should I take vitamin K2 with vitamin D3?
A: Yes — K2 and D3 are highly complementary and often recommended together. Vitamin D3 increases calcium absorption from the diet, while vitamin K2 ensures that absorbed calcium is directed to bones and teeth rather than soft tissues like arteries. Taking D3 without K2 can increase calcium absorption without proper direction, potentially allowing calcium to accumulate in the wrong places. The combination ensures calcium is both absorbed efficiently (D3) and properly distributed (K2).
Q: What is the difference between the 120-capsule and 300-capsule formats?
A: Both formats contain the same formulation — 120mcg of vitamin K2 MK-7 from natto per capsule, with the same NPN 80091254 Health Canada approval. The 120-capsule format is ideal for those new to K2 supplementation who want to try the product before committing to a larger quantity, or for those who prefer a smaller bottle. The 300-capsule format offers better per-capsule value and is suited for established users who want fewer reorders.
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 interact with anticoagulant medications because these drugs work by blocking vitamin K activity. While K2 primarily affects calcium metabolism rather than blood clotting, it can still influence anticoagulant medication effectiveness. Your doctor may need to monitor your INR levels and adjust your medication if you take vitamin K2.
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), 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, and is non-GMO.
Q: How long does it take to notice benefits?
A: Vitamin K2 works at the cellular level to activate calcium-regulating proteins, so effects are gradual rather than immediate. For bone health benefits, consistent use over several months is typically needed as bone remodeling is a slow process. For cardiovascular support, benefits develop gradually with ongoing supplementation. Consistent daily use is important for experiencing the full benefits of K2 MK-7.
Q: Why is this product Health Canada approved?
A: This product holds NPN 80091254 from Health Canada, meaning it has been reviewed and approved for safety, efficacy, and quality as a natural health product. The NPN designation provides assurance that the product meets Canadian regulatory standards for natural health products, including ingredient quality, dosage, and labelling requirements.
Q: Can I take more than one capsule per day?
A: The suggested use is 1 capsule daily. Some individuals may benefit from higher doses under healthcare practitioner guidance, particularly those with significant bone health concerns or those taking high-dose vitamin D3. Consult your healthcare provider before exceeding the suggested dose, especially if you are on blood-thinning medications.
