VITAMIN K2 MK-7 1.3% OIL

Vitamin K2, specifically menaquinone-7 (MK-7), is a highly bioavailable form of vitamin K. It is often derived from fermented foods like natto, or produced via bacterial fermentation processes, for example, using Bacillus subtilis natto. As an essential fat-soluble vitamin, its primary characteristic is its crucial role in the carboxylation of specific proteins within the body. The "1.3% oil" designation indicates its concentration and delivery format, typically dissolved in a stable carrier oil such as sunflower or MCT oil, which enhances its stability and absorption. Unlike vitamin K1, which is predominantly involved in blood clotting mechanisms, K2 MK-7 exhibits distinct physiological roles, particularly in calcium metabolism and maintaining optimal cardiovascular health. Its significantly longer half-life in the bloodstream compared to other menaquinones, such as MK-4, allows for more sustained and effective systemic activity, making it a highly preferred choice for dietary supplementation. This specific oil-based formulation ensures efficient delivery and superior systemic bioavailability.

The primary health benefits of Vitamin K2 MK-7 are prominently observed in bone and cardiovascular health. Its mechanism of action involves the activation of two key vitamin K-dependent proteins: Matrix Gla Protein (MGP) and Osteocalcin. When carboxylated by K2, MGP actively inhibits arterial calcification by binding to circulating calcium ions, thereby preventing their undesirable deposition in soft tissues like arteries. Concurrently, Osteocalcin, a critical protein found in bone, requires K2-mediated carboxylation to effectively bind calcium and integrate it into the bone matrix. This process is fundamental for promoting robust bone mineralization and enhancing overall bone strength and density. Landmark research, such as the prospective Rotterdam Study published in 2004, unequivocally highlighted a significant association between higher dietary vitamin K2 intake and a substantially reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality. Subsequent clinical trials have further elucidated that consistent K2 MK-7 supplementation can demonstrably improve arterial elasticity and effectively mitigate the progression of arterial calcification, underscoring its pivotal role as a bioactive compound.

Given its potent physiological effects, Vitamin K2 MK-7 1.3% oil finds wide application in various supplement formulations. It is commonly integrated into products targeting bone health support, comprehensive cardiovascular support formulas, and advanced multi-vitamin and mineral blends designed for holistic wellness. Due to its oil-based format, it is typically incorporated into softgels, liquid drops, or specialized encapsulated products, ensuring optimal stability and absorption. Quality considerations are paramount; ensuring the purity, stability, and accurate concentration of MK-7 is critical. Sourcing from reputable manufacturers guarantees the absence of contaminants and ensures consistent potency and efficacy. The 1.3% oil formulation is specifically designed to enable precise dosing and significantly enhance bioavailability, leveraging the fat-soluble nature of vitamin K for superior absorption. Ongoing scientific research continues to explore and confirm its synergistic effects with Vitamin D3, where D3 facilitates calcium absorption, and K2 precisely directs this calcium to the skeletal system while actively preventing its ectopic deposition in soft tissues. A comprehensive meta-analysis published in Osteoporosis International in 2020 further affirmed K2's crucial role in improving bone mineral density and significantly reducing fracture risk, particularly in vulnerable populations such as postmenopausal women, providing robust evidence for its therapeutic potential.