Vitamin K2

Vitamin K2 is a Vitamin supplement available in 1 form.

Not all forms of Vitamin K2 are equal. The form you choose determines how much Vitamin K2 actually reaches your tissues, and the difference between the best and worst forms can be substantial. MK-7 has a 72-hour half-life vs 1-2 hours for MK-4, enabling once-daily dosing with sustained tissue-level activity. Clinical trials demonstrate MK-7 superiority for osteocalcin carboxylation (bone health marker) and matrix Gla-protein activation (arterial calcification prevention) at doses as low as 180mcg/day.

Vitamin K2 (as MK-7) Preferred (Preferred Form) has a bioavailability rating of high absorption.

Vitamin K2 (as MK-7) is classified as Preferred Form by FormulaForge — our top recommendation for Vitamin K2. It carries a bioavailability rating of high absorption, meaning more of the active compound reaches your tissues per dose unit compared to lower-rated forms.

When choosing a Vitamin K2 supplement, read the label for the specific form name — that is what determines how much you actually absorb. Preferred Forms have the strongest research-backed evidence for efficient absorption.

Other forms may be appropriate depending on individual goals, cost considerations, and your healthcare provider’s guidance. The best form for you depends on your specific health needs.

Individual dose requirements vary based on health goals, body weight, and existing nutrient intake. Your healthcare provider can help you determine an appropriate amount of Vitamin K2 for you.

Side Effects: Consult your healthcare provider regarding tolerability, particularly at higher doses.

These statements are based on structure/function research and have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing a supplement regimen.

The following studies and findings inform FormulaForge classifications for Vitamin K2:

Crossover RCT (n=5 healthy women): single dose MK-4 (420μg) was undetectable in serum at all time points; MK-7 (420μg) reached peak serum concentration at 6 hours and was detectable up to 48 hours post-intake. Consecutive daily MK-7 produced significant cumulative serum accumulation; MK-4 showed none. PMID: 23140417

Healthy volunteers: natto-derived MK-7 accumulated 7-8 fold higher serum levels than synthetic vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) during prolonged supplementation. MK-7 induced more complete carboxylation of osteocalcin (extrahepatic tissue marker) vs K1. Both absorbed with peak at 4 hours; MK-7 sustained versus K1 rapid decline. PMID: 17158229

Review: Postprandial serum MK-7 concentrations reported 10-fold higher than K1 (phylloquinone). K1 primarily retained in liver for coagulation; MK-7 redistributes to extrahepatic tissues (bone, vasculature) due to longer circulating half-life. Long-chain menaquinones detectable up to 96 hours vs 8-24 hours for K1. PMID: 30791399