Vitamin K2 (menaquinone-7) is a fat-soluble nutrient with an important role in maintaining arterial calcium balance and vascular elasticity.1-12 In a systematic review involving five studies, higher intakes of vitamin K2 were associated with cardiovascular health.10 In an observational study involving 564 postmenopausal women, higher intake of vitamin K2 was associated with calcium balance in the vascular tissue.8 One of the primary functions of vitamin K2 is to support the carboxylation of matrix Gla-protein (MGP), a key protein involved in calcium balance.11 Accordingly, several studies indicate that Vitamin K2 also supports proper utilization of calcium in bone. Clinical research indicates that obtaining adequate amounts helps to maintain bone health.1-6 Vitamin K2 and vitamin D3 both participate in the regulation of osteocalcin, a biomarker of bone formation.1,13‡
