Vitamin k2 - What is the difference between two forms mk4 and | Practo Consult (2024)

FAQs

Which form of K2 is better? ›

For this reason, a supplement is often recommended. There are two main types of Vitamin K2 available for supplementation: MK-4 and MK-7. While both are forms of vitamin K2, MK-7 has been shown to be more effective than MK-4 at producing osteocaclin and reducing overall cardiovascular risk.

Supplemental Vitamin K2 exists in several forms, but the most common ones are the synthetic menaquinone-4 (MK-4) and the natural menaquinone-7 (MK-7).

Takeaway. Both forms of vitamin K2 display a range of beneficial activities in your body, but MK-7 is clearly the nutrient to focus on when it comes to bone health. This form of K2 remains available in your bloodstream for far longer and is able to accumulate, building up a buffer that ensures a steady supply.

MK-7 has higher efficacy due to its higher bioavailability and longer half-life than other vitamin K hom*ologs. As vitamin K1, MK-4, and MK-7 have distinct bioactivities, their RDIs should be established based on their relative activities. MK-7 increases bone mineral density and promotes bone quality and strength.

Compared to vitamin K1 (phylloquinone), K2-7 is absorbed more readily and is more bioavailable. Clinical studies have unequivocally demonstrated the utility of vitamin K2-7 supplementation in ameliorating peripheral neuropathy, reducing bone fracture risk and improving cardiovascular health.

Of all the menaquinones, MK-7 is absorbed most efficiently and exhibits greatest bioavailability [6,13]. This was shown by a comparative study between K1 and MK-7 following intake of vegetables and K2 rich food, respectively. Both vitamin K1 and MK-7 were readily absorbed within 2 hours after ingestion.

Better Bone Health with High-Dose Vitamin K2

High-dose vitamin K2, in the form of MK-4, has been used in Japan for decades as a treatment for osteoporosis. Human trials have shown that daily intake of 45 mg of vitamin K2 (MK-4) maintains or increases bone density and cuts the risk of fractures.

MK4 and MK7 are two forms of vitamin K2 commonly found in dietary supplements. Both are naturally occurring, and both have health benefits. But only MK4 has been shown to promote healthy bone density and maintain strong bones.

Adults should ensure they are getting between 100 and 300 micrograms of vitamin K2 per day. Children under 12 need just 45 micrograms per day. People with particular medical conditions may need more, as recommended by their doctor. There are no known serious side effects from taking too much vitamin K2.

Vitamins D and K are two supplements your healthcare provider might say you need. Products that combine the two usually include the D3 and K2 forms of the vitamins. If you need to take both, it is likely safe to do so. In fact, together, the two might be even more beneficial for bone health.

What happens if you have too much K2? ›

Vitamin K has a very low potential for toxicity. This is why there is no established Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) set for vitamin K. There is no known toxicity for vitamin K1 or K2 from food or supplements.

When taken by mouth: The two forms of vitamin K (vitamin K1 and vitamin K2) are likely safe when taken appropriately. Vitamin K1 10 mg daily and vitamin K2 45 mg daily have been safely used for up to 2 years. It's usually well-tolerated, but some people may have an upset stomach or diarrhea.

If the supplementation goal is a major therapeutic intervention for osteopenia, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, arterial calcification, a high dose may be used, such as 45 mg/day, the same as in the drug form Glakay.

People with a rare metabolic condition called Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency should avoid vitamin K. People who take warfarin (Coumadin) should not take vitamin K (see “Possible Interactions”). People who are receiving dialysis for kidney diseases can have harmful effects from too much vitamin K.

MK4 and MK7 are two forms of vitamin K2 commonly found in dietary supplements. Both are naturally occurring, and both have health benefits. But only MK4 has been shown to promote healthy bone density and maintain strong bones.

The Vitamin K2 MK-7 is derived from bacteria. It is more likely to reach the bones and liver. We know it's converted in the body to MK-4, but we don't really know how much is converted. Based on what we know currently, you should look for a supplement with BOTH Vitamin K2 MK-4 and MK-7.

Answer: Two forms of vitamin K2 are typically found in supplements: MK-4 (synthetic) and MK-7 (natural, from natto). There are significant differences between them: in paticular, MK-7 has a longer half-life, so a smaller dose can be used. Two newer forms of MK-7 are available that are synthetic.