Vitamins

Vitamin K2 (MK-7)

Evidence: strong_human

Mechanism of Action

Vitamin K2 (menaquinone-7) activates vitamin K-dependent proteins via gamma-carboxylation of glutamic acid residues. Key targets: osteocalcin (directs calcium into bone matrix), matrix Gla protein (MGP, inhibits arterial calcification), Gas6 (cell signaling, neuroprotection), and protein S (anticoagulant). MK-7 has a long half-life (~72 hours vs 1-2 hours for K1) enabling consistent carboxylation activity with once-daily dosing. It works synergistically with Vitamin D3 to regulate calcium metabolism — D3 increases calcium absorption while K2 directs its deposition.

Dosing Protocol

Standard: 100-200 mcg MK-7 daily

Loading: 200-400 mcg/day for first 3 months (especially with high-dose D3 supplementation)

Maintenance: 100-200 mcg/day

Administration: oral

Timing: With fat-containing meal alongside Vitamin D3.

Duration: ongoing (mandatory co-supplement with Vitamin D3)

Notes

Possibly the most underappreciated vitamin. The vitamin D-K2 pairing should be considered inseparable for any practitioner. Warfarin interaction is the single most critical clinical concern — screen every client. For clients on warfarin, discuss with their prescriber about switching to a DOAC, which would allow K2 supplementation. MK-4 (45mg, the Japanese osteoporosis dose) works differently than MK-7 — it has tissue-specific effects and short half-life. Both forms have merit but MK-7 is standard for general health optimization.

Stacking

  • Vitamin D3
  • Calcium (if needed)
  • Magnesium
  • Vitamin A

Interactions

  • Warfarin/coumarin anticoagulants [HIGH] — Vitamin K directly antagonizes warfarin mechanism. Contraindicated unless under strict INR monitoring.
  • Other anticoagulants (DOACs) [LOW] — DOACs (apixaban, rivarelbam) do not work via vitamin K pathway — K2 supplementation is safe

Contraindications

  • Warfarin/coumarin anticoagulant therapy (unless specifically directed by physician with INR monitoring)

Side Effects

  • Generally very well tolerated
  • Rare: mild GI discomfort
  • Theoretical thrombotic risk in deficiency-rebound scenario (unproven)

Key Papers

  • 10.1160/TH13-01-0073
  • 10.1007/s00198-013-2325-6
  • 10.1016/j.thromres.2014.10.008

Source Quality

MK-7 (from natto fermentation) preferred over MK-4 for longer half-life and lower dosing requirements. All-trans MK-7 is the bioactive form — some cheap products contain cis-MK-7 (inactive). Brands: Thorne Vitamin D/K2 Liquid, Carlson Vitamin K2, Life Extension Super K (contains K1 + MK-4 + MK-7).

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. BioAccelera Labs does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before using any compound.

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