Vitamin K2 May Slow Osteoarthritis by Protecting Cartilage and Preventing Cell Death

Dr. Kumar’s Take:

This study is one of the most compelling pieces of preclinical evidence I’ve seen suggesting that Vitamin K2 might protect joints against osteoarthritis (OA). Researchers found that Vitamin K2 helps prevent a specific type of cell death called ferroptosis in cartilage cells, while also preserving the structural proteins that keep our joints healthy. Although this was done in rats, it opens the door to new ways of thinking about joint care, especially for aging populations.

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Vitamin K2 May Help Protect Against Heart Disease, Study Finds

Dr. Kumar’s Take:

This large study from the Netherlands found that people who ate more vitamin K2 (menaquinone)—mostly from fermented foods like cheese—had fewer heart attacks, lower risk of dying from heart disease, and less calcium buildup in their arteries. Interestingly, vitamin K1, which comes from leafy greens, didn’t show the same benefits. This tells us that vitamin K2 may play a special role in keeping our blood vessels healthy and flexible.

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Vitamin K2 and Heart Health: A Promising Ally Against Artery Calcification

Dr. Kumar’s Take:

Most people don’t think about vitamin K2 when it comes to heart health—but this review shows we probably should. Vitamin K2 helps activate a special protein called matrix Gla protein (MGP), which stops calcium from building up in your arteries and heart valves. When you don’t get enough vitamin K2, this protein stays inactive, and your risk of artery hardening, heart valve disease, and even heart failure goes up.

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Vitamin K2 as MK-7: The Unsung Nutrient Protecting Your Heart and Bones

Dr. Kumar’s Take:

Most people know about calcium and vitamin D for bones, but very few understand how important Vitamin K2, especially in the form MK-7, is for both heart and bone health. This review article highlights how Vitamin K2 helps guide calcium to the right places—your bones and teeth—and keeps it out of places it doesn’t belong, like your arteries.

Key Takeaways:

✔ Vitamin K2 activates proteins that prevent calcium from building up in arteries.
✔ The MK-7 form is more effective than MK-4 due to better absorption and longer half-life.
✔ Higher K2 intake is linked to reduced heart disease, fewer calcium deposits, and better bone strength.

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