Vitamin K2 in recent years has become an extensive topic of research for its role in two particular areas- cardiovascular health and osteoporosis. A deficiency of Vitamin K2 can lead to extensive bleeding. However, for its added benefits one might need to supplement with Vitamin K2
Vitamin K2 and Bone Health
Prevalence of osteoporosis increases markedly with age. Long-term inadequacy of vitamin K has been indicated as one of the risk factor for the development of age-related diseases, including osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease (1).
Vitamin K is required for the posttranslational carboxylation of the Gla-proteins, including osteocalcin (OC) and matrix Gla-protein. OC is local inhibitor of mineralization in bone, and the uncarboxylated form (ucOC) is considered as a marker for poor vitamin K status in bone. Inadequate intake of vitamin K and high levels of circulating ucOC have been associated with low bone mass and increased fracture risk (1).
A study carried out on postmenopausal women concluded that MK-7 intake has significantly improved vitamin K status and decreased the age-related decline in BMC and BMD at the lumbar spine and femoral neck. Therefore Vitamin K2-7 supplementation can help postmenopausal women to decrease bone loss (1).
Vitamin K status is been associated with increase in the bone mineral content (2). Long-term supplementation with MK-7 beneficially affects bone health (1).
Vitamin K2 and Cardiovascular Health
Poor vitamin K status has been associated with increased in the risk of cardiovascular disease. Population-based studies indicate that low dietary vitamin K intake is associated with arterial calcification (3).
Vitamin K2 plays a crucial role in cardiovascular health through regulation of calcium homeostasis. cardiovascular system are mediated through activation of the anti-calcific protein known as matrix Gla protein. Vitamin K2 mediates activation of the anti-calcific protein (matrix Gla protein) and maintains cardiovascular health (4).
Supplementation with vitamin K2 has been observed to improve cardiovascular outcomes such as modification of systemic calcification and arterial stiffness (4).