Effects of vitamin K2 (MK-7) supplementation on bone mineral density, bone turnover markers, and arterial calcification: a randomized controlled trial
Knapen MH, Drummen NE, Smit E, Vermeer C, Theuwissen E
Evidence is still building up
Summary
An RCT in 244 postmenopausal women receiving MK-7 (menaquinone-7) 180 µg/day for 3 years. Compared with placebo, significant attenuation of lumbar spine and femoral neck bone mineral density decline, with significant increases in carboxylated osteocalcin (active bone protein). Arterial stiffness progression in the carotid artery was also attenuated. The synergistic role with vitamin D is that vitamin D enhances calcium absorption while K2 directs calcium into bone.
Key findings
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Significant attenuation of lumbar spine and femoral neck BMD decline
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Significant increase in carboxylated osteocalcin (active bone protein)
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Attenuated progression of carotid arterial stiffness
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MK-7 form has long plasma half-life (~72 hours), effective at low doses
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Synergy with vitamin D: directs calcium into bone
Related supplements
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Vitamin K2 (MK-7)View in official storeSlowed bone density loss in postmenopausal women reported in a 3-year RCT
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