Discover the key distinctions between natural and synthetic Vitamin K2 to determine which offers the most health benefits for bone and cardiovascular support. Download our comprehensive paper to make well-informed decisions about your K2 supplementation.
Vitamin K2 and its Variants
Vitamin K2, particularly menaquinone-7 (vitamin K2 MK-7), plays a vital role in promoting bone and cardiovascular health. Vitamin K2 MK-7 activates osteocalcin, facilitating the binding of calcium to bones and thus improving bone mineral density. Additionally, Vitamin K2 MK-7 supports cardiovascular health by activating matrix Gla protein (MGP), which helps stop calcium from depositing in arteries and soft tissues, thereby lowering the risk of cardiovascular issues and enhancing blood flow.
Sources of Vitamin K2
Vitamin K2 can be derived either from natural fermentation or through chemical synthesis. The fermentation process, which produces vitamin K2 MK-7, yields a highly effective form of Vitamin K2. Due to the limited dietary sources of K2 in food, achieving adequate intake from diet alone is challenging. Therefore, supplementation is often necessary to meet daily requirements and address K2 deficiency.
Natural Fermentation vs. Synthesis
Vitamin K2 obtained through natural fermentation involves the use of microorganisms such as Bacillus subtilis, resulting in a superior form of Vitamin K2 MK-7. Conversely, synthetic Vitamin K2 is produced via chemical processes and typically contains a higher proportion of the less effective cis isomer. This distinction is critical for individuals seeking the full health benefits of K2.
Isomeric Purity of MK-7
Vitamin K2 MK-7 exists in both trans and cis isomers, with the trans form being the bioactive version necessary for health benefits of K2. High-quality MK-7 supplements produced through natural fermentation typically have over 99% isomeric purity, indicating a dominance of the trans form. Synthetic MK-7, on the other hand, may contain a higher percentage of cis isomers, making natural fermentation the preferred method for obtaining effective vitamin K2.