As the world celebrates the season of love, Gnosis by Lesaffre is shedding light on the vital role of Vitamin K2 in maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system.
We share two recently published studies that underscore the importance of supplementing this essential nutrient.
Vitamin K2 and the Heart’s Rhythm
Vitamin K2 plays a crucial role in the carboxylation of Gla-proteins, including matrix Gla-protein (MGP) in the arteries, which acts as a powerful inhibitor of vascular calcification. Research has shown that higher levels of dephosphorylated-uncarboxylated matrix Gla protein (dp-ucMGP), a marker of low vitamin K2 status, are associated with increased risks of vascular calcification, cardiovascular issues, and other health complications. Interestingly, adults over 40 exhibit the most pronounced tissue-specific vitamin K deficiency and may benefit significantly from MK-7 supplementation.
Unlocking the Secrets of Cardiovascular Health
The first study found that individuals with higher dp-ucMGP levels were more likely to have central obesity, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and impaired kidney function, highlighting the potential of improving Vitamin K2 status to mitigate cardiovascular risk factors. The second study revealed that elevated dp-ucMGP levels are significantly correlated with the long-term progression of coronary artery and aortic calcification, especially in older adults and those with diabetes, suggesting that low Vitamin K2 status accelerates vascular calcification, a key risk factor for cardiovascular issues.
Strengthening the Heart’s Resilience
As the world focuses on the power of love this Valentine’s season, Gnosis reminds us that the key to a healthy heart may lie in supplementing Vitamin K2. By addressing the underlying deficiencies and promoting the carboxylation of essential proteins, this nutrient could be the missing piece in the puzzle of cardiovascular well-being.
MenaQ7® far surpasses any other K2 supplement in the number of human clinical studies, and it is the only K2 ingredient associated with the highly esteemed Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM).
Read our article “The more vitamin K2, the better your heart health” publised in Innovations in food technology on this topic.