Vitamin K2 90 mcg, 60 capsules

MK-7, the superior form of vitamin K2

This product contains 90 μg of vitamin K2 in the form of menaquinone-7 (MK-7). Vitamin K2, also known as menaquinone (abbreviated to MK), occurs in various forms, the best known of which are MK-4, MK-7, MK-8 and MK-9. The number following ‘MK’ refers to the length of the side chain in the molecule. According to current scientific knowledge, menaquinone-7 (MK-7) is the most effective form of vitamin K2. MK-7 is very well absorbed and, due to its long half-life, remains effective in the body for a very long time. For this reason, MK-7 can be administered in relatively low doses to achieve an optimal effect.

K2Vital®Delta from Kappa Bioscience

Vitamin K2 is known for its high instability. When combined with minerals or certain excipients, the vitamin K2 content in a product can drop rapidly. This is, of course, highly undesirable, as one wishes to be able to store a dietary supplement for its entire shelf life. The Norwegian manufacturer Kappa Bioscience has developed a vitamin K2 raw material that is very well protected against external influences. Using a patented microencapsulation process, the K2 is completely encapsulated, which guarantees its stability even in products containing aggressive mineral compounds. Following extensive stability tests involving various K2 raw materials in different formulations, Vitals has selected K2Vital®Delta as the best vitamin K2 raw material.

Trans form versus cis form

MK-7 occurs in two forms (isomers): the natural trans-form and the synthetic cis-form. The body can only utilise the natural trans-form, as found in food. The trans-form is therefore also regarded by scientists as the only biologically active form of MK-7. The cis-form, on the other hand, does not occur naturally and is not effective. Under certain circumstances, it could even place an unnecessary strain on the body. This product from Vitals contains more than 99.7% of the natural trans-form.

Sources of vitamin K2

MK-7 is produced by certain bacteria during fermentation and occurs naturally in nattō, a Japanese dish made from fermented soya. Nattō has a strong, distinctive flavour and is therefore not very popular in Western cuisine. Other menaquinones, such as MK-8 and MK-9, are found in smaller quantities, particularly in cottage cheese and hard cheese.

The function of vitamin K

The best-known function of vitamin K in the body is its contribution to normal blood clotting. Vitamin K activates certain vitamin K-dependent blood clotting factors, which ensure optimal blood clotting – neither too strong nor too weak. However, it also contributes to the uptake of calcium into the bones. Vitamin K is, in fact, required as a coenzyme for the carboxylation (activation) of certain Gla proteins, whereby glutamic acid (Glu) is converted into γ-carboxyglutamic acid (Gla). Carboxylation is essential for most of the functions of these proteins. Examples of important Gla proteins include^{osteocalcin¹}and matrix Gla protein (MGP)^². A common feature of these carboxylated, vitamin K-dependent Gla proteins is that they bind calcium.

^1Osteocalcin(also known as ‘bone Gla protein’) is a vitamin K-dependent protein produced in bone and dental tissue that regulates their mineralisation.
²) Matrix Gla protein: a vitamin K-dependent protein produced in most soft tissues, such as blood vessels, cartilage, kidneys, lungs and the spleen, as well as in bone tissue. MGP (like osteocalcin and other Gla proteins) has calcium-binding properties.

Nutritional properties

• Vitamin K contributes to normal blood clotting.
• Vitamin K contributes to the maintenance of normal bones.

Nutrition declaration

*Reference value according to Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011

Ingredients

Rice flour (Oryza sativa), vegetable capsule (pullulan, from fermented cassava starch), vitamin K2.

Recommended intake

Take 1–2 capsules daily with meals.

Storage instructions

Store in a cool, dry place away from light (not in the fridge).

Legal information

Do not exceed the recommended daily intake. Food supplements are not a substitute for a balanced and varied diet and a healthy lifestyle. Keep out of the reach of young children.