What is the recommended dosage for Vitamin K2?

General: 90-120 mcg/day (MK-7 preferred); Cardiovascular Support: 180-360 mcg/day MK-7

What are the side effects of Vitamin K2?

Potential side effects include: Generally very well-tolerated, Does not affect blood clotting (INR) at supplemental doses, unlike K1.

What is vitamin K2 and how may it support cardiovascular health?

Vitamin K2 (menaquinone) activates matrix Gla protein (MGP), which inhibits arterial calcification. Observational studies suggest higher K2 intake is associated with reduced cardiovascular mortality and coronary calcification. The Rotterdam Study found that high K2 intake was associated with 50% lower risk of arterial calcification.

What dosage of vitamin K2 has been studied for cardiovascular benefits?

Clinical studies have used 90–360 mcg of vitamin K2 per day, primarily the MK-7 form. MK-7 has a longer half-life than MK-4, allowing once-daily dosing. Studies examining arterial stiffness and calcification typically lasted 1–3 years. K2 is often co-supplemented with vitamin D.

What are the potential side effects of vitamin K2?

K2 is generally well tolerated at supplemental doses. The critical interaction is with warfarin (and other vitamin K antagonist anticoagulants), where K2 can reduce anticoagulant efficacy. Individuals on warfarin must maintain consistent vitamin K intake and inform their healthcare provider before starting K2 supplementation.

Vitamin K2

vitamin

Also known as: Menaquinone, MK-7, MK-4, Menaquinone-7, Menaquinone-4

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About

Vitamin K2 activates matrix Gla protein (MGP), the most potent natural inhibitor of arterial calcification, directing calcium to bones and away from arteries. The Rotterdam Heart Study (4,807 participants) found the highest vitamin K2 intake was associated with 57% reduction in cardiovascular mortality and 52% reduction in severe aortic calcification.

How It Works

Activates matrix Gla protein (MGP) — the most potent natural inhibitor of arterial calcification — through gamma-carboxylation; directs calcium deposition to bones and away from arteries by activating osteocalcin (bone) and MGP (arteries); the MK-7 form has the longest half-life (72 hours) providing sustained vascular protection; works synergistically with vitamin D.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Arterial Stiffness	B	5	1200	View →

Side Effects

Generally very well-tolerated
Does not affect blood clotting (INR) at supplemental doses, unlike K1

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Warfarin (patients on warfarin should consult physician before K2 supplementation)
Vitamin D (synergistic — D increases MGP production, K2 activates it)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

Folate (Vitamin B9) Niacin (Vitamin B3) Vitamin D Vitamin E

Quick Facts

Dosage: General: 90-120 mcg/day (MK-7 preferred); Cardiovascular_Support: 180-360 mcg/day MK-7
Forms: capsule softgel liquid drops
Natural Sources: Natto (richest source, MK-7), Gouda/Brie cheese, Egg yolks, Chicken liver, Sauerkraut
Upper Limit: Not established (no known toxicity for K2 at supplemental doses)
Best Time: With meals containing fat; can combine with vitamin D supplement

Evidence Summary

Arterial Stiffness B

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.