Offers an enhanced bioactive form of vitamin K2 from cultured Bacillus natto.
Ten times better absorbed than K1 from spinach. View larger.
Beyond Coagulation
The story of vitamin K began in 1929 when the Danish researcher Henrik Dam discovered its role in coagulation. Vitamin K is integral to the conversion of the amino acid glutamic acid (Glu) into gamma-carboxyglutamate (Gla). Proteins containing Gla are important in coagulation processes. These proteins work together in a complex cascade to create fibrin that strengthens platelets and helps to stop the flow of blood when necessary. Almost fifty years later vitamin K benefits beyond coagulation were discovered.*
Vitamin K is a group name for a number of structurally related compounds including phylloquinone (vitamin K1) and menaquinones (K2 vitamins). The synthetic short-chain vitamin K1 is commonly used in food supplements but recently the natural long-chain menaquinone-7 (MK-7) has also become available as a dietary supplement. All forms of vitamin K serve as a cofactor for the posttranslational carboxylation of certain protein bound glutamate residues which are converted into gamma-carboxyglutamate (Gla). These Gla residues form calcium-binding sites that are essential for the activity of the proteins in which they are found. The most recognized Gla-containing proteins are the blood coagulation factors II VII IX and X which are all synthesized in the liver. Gla proteins not related to blood clotting are osteocalcin (synthesized in bone) and matrix Gla protein (mainly synthesized in cartilage and in the vessel wall).
For example carboxylated matrix Gla protein binds calcium and helps guard against the deposition of calcium in arteries. Likewise researchers have confirmed that vitamin K activates matrix Gla protein and promotes arterial health.*
Osteocalcin is the most abundant vitamin K-dependent protein in bone. It is synthesized by the bone forming cells known as osteoblasts and plays an important role in the regular deposition of hydroxyapatite in the bones. The amount of osteocalcin that is not carboxylated [under-carboxylated osteocalcin] is considered a sensitive measure of vitamin K status in bone with an elevated percentage of under-carboxylated osteocalcin associated with low dietary intakes of vitamin K. As a result bone health relies heavily on the activation of osteocalcin by vitamin K. Studies show that when supplemental vitamin K is given to people with inactive osteocalcin active levels will rise.*
Modern scientific evidence has linked low vitamin K intake with a number of suboptimal health conditions. In addition vitamin K supplements have been shown to help maintain healthy bone density and display a beneficial effect on the elastic properties of the arterial vessel wall.*
Superiority of K2
The K2 vitamins include the menaquinones" MK-7?? MK-8?? and MK-9 and are present in some fe
