What Is Vitamin K2?

You may have heard about vitamin K2 while browsing vitamins and supplements, especially products that combine vitamin K2 with vitamin D. But what is vitamin K2, and why is it included in so many wellness routines?

Vitamin K2 is a form of vitamin K, a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in several functions throughout the body. While vitamin K is often associated with normal blood clotting, it also contributes to the maintenance of normal bones. Understanding the different forms of vitamin K can help you make more informed choices about your daily nutrition and supplement routine.

Understanding Vitamin K2

Vitamin K2 is one of the main forms of vitamin K. It belongs to a group of compounds called menaquinones, which are commonly abbreviated as MK. Some of the most well-known forms include MK-4 and MK-7.

Vitamin K2 can be found naturally in certain fermented foods and animal-derived foods. Vitamin K1, another form of vitamin K, is more commonly associated with leafy green vegetables.

Although K1 and K2 are both forms of vitamin K, they have different food sources and chemical structures. This is one reason vitamin K2 has become a popular ingredient in nutritional supplements.

What Does Vitamin K2 Do?

Vitamin K contributes to important functions in the body. Two of the best-established roles of vitamin K are supporting normal blood clotting and helping maintain normal bones.

Vitamin K is involved in the production and activation of certain proteins that the body needs for these functions. Some vitamin K-dependent proteins are also involved in the body's management of calcium.

This makes vitamin K an important nutrient to include as part of a balanced diet. Vitamin K2 supplements are designed to provide a convenient source of this specific form of vitamin K.

Vitamin K1 vs. Vitamin K2

If you're wondering about the difference between vitamin K1 and K2, their primary distinction comes down to their forms and common food sources.

• Vitamin K1 is also known as phylloquinone and is found primarily in green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, and collard greens.
• Vitamin K2 refers to several menaquinones, including MK-4 and MK-7. It occurs in certain fermented foods and animal-derived foods.

Both are forms of vitamin K and contribute to the body's overall vitamin K intake. However, they aren't interchangeable in terms of their chemical structure or food sources.

Where Can You Get Vitamin K2?

Food can be an excellent way to incorporate nutrients into your diet, and vitamin K2 is naturally present in several foods.

One of the best-known dietary sources is natto, a traditional Japanese fermented soybean food. Certain cheeses and animal-derived foods, including eggs and meat, can also contain vitamin K2.

The amount and form of K2 found in foods can vary depending on factors such as the food itself and how it is produced. 

Why Take a Vitamin K2 Supplement?

Getting nutrients from a varied diet is an important foundation for overall wellness. At the same time, supplements can make it easier to incorporate specific nutrients into a daily routine.

A vitamin K2 supplement can provide a convenient source of K2 without requiring you to plan meals around specific dietary sources. Depending on the product, supplements may contain particular forms of K2, such as MK-7.

When choosing a supplement, check the Supplement Facts label for the type and amount of vitamin K2 it contains. It's also important to follow the product's recommended serving instructions.

A supplement from Wellum Health can complement nutritious food choices and other healthy habits as part of a well-rounded wellness routine.

How Much Vitamin K2 Do You Need?

Nutritional recommendations for vitamin K are generally provided for total vitamin K rather than separate recommendations for K1 and K2. Individual nutritional needs can vary depending on factors such as age, diet, and overall health.

If you're adding a vitamin K2 supplement to your routine, follow the serving instructions on the product label. If you take medications or have questions about whether vitamin K2 is appropriate for you, speak with your healthcare professional before starting a new supplement.

Make Vitamin K2 Part of Your Wellness Routine

Now that you know what vitamin K2 is, you can see why it's an important nutrient to consider when building a well-rounded supplement routine. From supporting normal blood clotting to helping maintain normal bones, vitamin K plays several essential roles in the body.

Ready to make vitamin K2 part of your routine? Shop at Wellum Health to find the right fit for your daily wellness needs. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is vitamin K2 the same as vitamin K?

Vitamin K2 is one form of vitamin K. Vitamin K1 is another major form. Both contribute to the body's vitamin K intake, but they have different chemical structures and food sources.

What is vitamin K2 good for?

Vitamin K contributes to normal blood clotting and the maintenance of normal bones. Vitamin K2 is one form of this essential nutrient.

What foods contain vitamin K2?

Vitamin K2 can be found in fermented foods such as natto, as well as certain cheeses and animal-derived foods including eggs and meat.

Can you take vitamin K2 with vitamin D?

Vitamin K2 and vitamin D are commonly included together in some nutritional supplements. However, anyone taking medication or managing a health condition should speak with a healthcare professional before adding a new supplement to their routine.