K-2 MK-4 vs. K-2 MK-7

Attribute	K-2 MK-4	K-2 MK-7
Form	Menatetrenone	Menaquinone-7
Source	Synthetic	Natural (fermented soybeans)
Half-life	3-4 hours	3 days
Recommended dosage	100-1000 mcg/day	100-200 mcg/day
Effectiveness	Quickly absorbed but shorter duration	Slowly absorbed but longer duration

Introduction

Vitamin K is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in blood clotting, bone health, and cardiovascular health. There are two main forms of vitamin K that are commonly used in supplements: K-2 MK-4 and K-2 MK-7. While both forms are important for overall health, they have some key differences in terms of absorption, bioavailability, and benefits. In this article, we will compare the attributes of K-2 MK-4 and K-2 MK-7 to help you make an informed decision about which form of vitamin K is right for you.

Chemical Structure

K-2 MK-4 and K-2 MK-7 are both forms of vitamin K, but they have different chemical structures. K-2 MK-4 is a shorter-chain molecule with four isoprene units, while K-2 MK-7 is a longer-chain molecule with seven isoprene units. This difference in structure affects how the two forms of vitamin K are absorbed and utilized by the body. K-2 MK-7 is known for its longer half-life in the body, which means it stays in the bloodstream longer and has a more sustained effect compared to K-2 MK-4.

Absorption and Bioavailability

One of the key differences between K-2 MK-4 and K-2 MK-7 is their absorption and bioavailability. K-2 MK-4 is more easily absorbed by the body and has a shorter half-life compared to K-2 MK-7. This means that K-2 MK-4 needs to be taken more frequently to maintain optimal levels in the body. On the other hand, K-2 MK-7 has a longer half-life and is more bioavailable, which means it can be taken less frequently and still have a sustained effect on vitamin K levels in the body.

Benefits

Both K-2 MK-4 and K-2 MK-7 have been shown to have important health benefits, but they may have different effects on specific health conditions. K-2 MK-4 is known for its role in bone health and has been shown to help prevent osteoporosis and improve bone density. On the other hand, K-2 MK-7 is known for its cardiovascular benefits and has been shown to help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Both forms of vitamin K are important for blood clotting and overall cardiovascular health.

Sources

K-2 MK-4 is found in animal products such as meat, eggs, and dairy, while K-2 MK-7 is found in fermented foods like natto, a traditional Japanese dish made from soybeans. While both forms of vitamin K can be obtained through diet, many people choose to supplement with K-2 MK-4 or K-2 MK-7 to ensure they are getting an adequate amount of this important nutrient. It is important to note that vitamin K supplements should be taken with caution, especially if you are taking blood-thinning medications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both K-2 MK-4 and K-2 MK-7 are important forms of vitamin K that play a crucial role in overall health. While K-2 MK-4 is more easily absorbed and needs to be taken more frequently, K-2 MK-7 has a longer half-life and is more bioavailable. The choice between K-2 MK-4 and K-2 MK-7 ultimately depends on your individual health needs and goals. It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it is safe and appropriate for you.