Low Dose Vitamin K2 (MK-7) 45 mcg
Life Extension
Low Dose Vitamin K2 (MK-7) 45 mcg
4.8
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(5793 ratings)
Vitamin K 45 mcg
Score 80.0
A high-quality MK-7 Vitamin K2 supplement from Life Extension, offering foundational support for bone and cardiovascular health at a reasonable price, though at a lower maintenance dose.
Quantity: 90 Softgel(s)Servings size: 1 Softgel(s) (90 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Bone Health
Heart Health
Cardiovascular Support
General Health
leaderboard Score 80.0
A high-quality MK-7 Vitamin K2 supplement from Life Extension, offering foundational support for bone and cardiovascular health at a reasonable price, though at a lower maintenance dose.
insights Analysis
The product provides 45mcg of Vitamin K2 in the Menaquinone-7 (MK-7) form, which is widely recognized by nutritionists and scientific reviews for its superior bioavailability and longer half-life compared to other K forms. Life Extension is a premium brand, reflected in its general product quality and the trust consumers place in it, as evidenced by its high review count. While effective for foundational support in bone and cardiovascular health, its specific dosage and lack of synergistic nutrients like Vitamin D3 mean it fits a maintenance role rather than a comprehensive therapeutic one. The price per serving is reasonable for a reputable MK-7 product.
- Contains the highly bioavailable and effective MK-7 form of Vitamin K2.
- From Life Extension, a very reputable brand known for rigorous quality control and science-backed formulations.
- Reasonable price per serving for a quality MK-7 product.
- The 45mcg dosage is on the lower side for therapeutic benefits, especially compared to some alternative products.
- Does not include synergistic nutrients like Vitamin D3, which are often recommended alongside K2 for optimal bone and heart health.
$13.50($0.15 per serving)
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bolt Effectiveness for goals
Vitamin K is essential for proper blood clotting and plays a significant role in bone metabolism. It helps the body produce proteins necessary for these vital bodily functions.
Vitamin K activates proteins such as osteocalcin, which are crucial for incorporating calcium into the bone matrix. This mechanism supports bone mineralization and helps maintain bone density.
Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) is primarily effective for blood coagulation and is abundant in green leafy vegetables. Vitamin K2 (menaquinones) is more involved in bone and cardiovascular health, found in fermented foods and animal products, and has different bioavailabilities.
Emerging research suggests that Vitamin K, particularly K2, may help prevent arterial calcification by activating matrix Gla protein. This protein helps inhibit calcium deposition in soft tissues, supporting arterial flexibility.
Vitamin K works synergistically with calcium by helping to direct calcium to the bones and away from soft tissues like arteries. It activates proteins like osteocalcin for bone binding and matrix Gla protein to inhibit soft tissue calcification.
schedule Dosage, timing & forms
Recommended dosages for Vitamin K vary by age and form (K1 vs K2). For adults, the Adequate Intake (AI) for Vitamin K is 120 mcg per day for men and 90 mcg per day for women. Specific supplemental dosages may differ depending on individual needs and health goals.
Yes, dosages can differ between Vitamin K1 and K2 due to their varying potencies and half-lives. While K1 is measured in micrograms (mcg) for general intake, K2 (especially MK-7) may be effective at lower microgram doses due to its longer half-life. It's important to check the specific form and dosage on the supplement label.
Yes, Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning it is best absorbed when taken with a meal containing some dietary fat. This helps facilitate its absorption into the body.
The two main forms of Vitamin K found in supplements are Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) and Vitamin K2 (menaquinone). Vitamin K2 further has various subtypes, with MK-4 and MK-7 being the most common in supplements. Each form may have distinct roles and bioavailability.
There is no established Upper Limit (UL) for Vitamin K from food or supplements, as toxicity is rare. However, high doses of synthetic Vitamin K (menadione, K3) can be toxic, though this form is not typically found in supplements. Always adhere to recommended dosages and consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.
health_and_safety Safety & interactions
Vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting, which is the opposite effect of anticoagulant medications such as warfarin. Consuming inconsistent amounts of Vitamin K can alter warfarin's effectiveness, potentially making the blood thinner less effective or increasing bleeding risk. Individuals taking warfarin should maintain a consistent intake of Vitamin K and consult their healthcare provider.
Individuals taking anticoagulant medications like warfarin should consult their doctor before taking Vitamin K supplements due to potential interactions. People with certain liver conditions or those with a G6PD deficiency should also seek medical advice before supplementation. Always discuss new supplements with a healthcare provider.
Vitamin K supplements are generally considered safe for most healthy individuals when taken at recommended dosages. Side effects are uncommon but can include upset stomach, diarrhea, or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. High doses of synthetic Vitamin K (menadione, K3) can be toxic, but this form is rarely used in supplements.
Vitamin K is essential during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and adequate intake is important for both mother and child. However, supplementation during these periods should only be undertaken under the guidance of a healthcare professional. High doses are generally not recommended without specific medical advice.
There is currently no established Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for Vitamin K from food or supplements due to its low potential for toxicity. However, excessive intake, especially of synthetic forms, could potentially have adverse effects. It is always best to adhere to recommended dosages on supplement labels or as advised by a healthcare professional.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
Vitamin K2 | 45 mcg |
Categories
Vitamin K 90.0
This product is an excellent example within the Vitamin K category due to its specific focus on the highly beneficial MK-7 form. It represents a superior choice compared to products offering K1 or less bioavailable forms of K2, making it a highly desirable option for those specifically seeking Vitamin K2 benefits.
Goals
Bone Health 85.0
MK-7 is crucial for activating osteocalcin, a protein that integrates calcium into bones, thereby promoting bone density and strength. The 45mcg dose provides good foundational support, helping to ensure proper calcium utilization in bone matrix and preventing its deposition elsewhere, which is vital for long-term skeletal integrity.
Heart Health 85.0
Vitamin K2 as MK-7 helps direct calcium away from arterial walls, preventing calcification and maintaining arterial elasticity, which is critical for healthy heart function. This dose contributes positively, supporting general cardiovascular integrity and reducing the risk of arterial stiffness associated with aging.
By inhibiting vascular calcification and promoting arterial flexibility, MK-7 plays a significant role in maintaining healthy blood vessel structure and function, directly contributing to overall cardiovascular support. The provided dosage offers a good baseline for this protective effect, helping to ensure smooth blood flow.
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