Tag: Mk 4 vs mk 7

Over 60% of people over 40 may have a functional vitamin K deficiency, a crucial nutrient with two main forms, K1 and K2. This guide explores which type of vitamin K2 is most effective for supplementation, comparing the popular menaquinones, MK-4 and MK-7, to help you make an informed decision.

A 2017 study in the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism highlighted the growing recognition of vitamin K2's importance beyond blood coagulation. Yet, despite its known benefits, many people wonder: are all K2 vitamins the same? The answer is a definitive no, and understanding the differences, particularly between the MK-4 and MK-7 forms, is crucial for maximizing their health benefits.

According to a 2019 review, the body absorbs 10 times more vitamin K2 in the form of MK-7 than vitamin K1, highlighting a key difference between vitamin K subtypes. So, is K2 the same as K7? The answer is no, as K7 is a specific subtype of K2 with distinct properties.

According to a 2012 study, at a nutritional dose, MK-7 was well-absorbed and detectable in the blood for up to 48 hours, whereas MK-4 was not. This significant difference in absorption and half-life is central to the debate over which is better, vitamin K2 MK-4 or MK-7, particularly for long-term health benefits like bone and cardiovascular support.