- Natural Vitamin K2 MK-7
- Sourced from natto (GMO-free)
- Multifunctional health-promoting effects
- Regulates calcium levels in the blood
- Supports the skeletal and circulatory systems
- Part of the prevention of atherosclerosis
Swanson Vitamin K2 is a supplement in the form of gel capsules containing an extremely rapidly absorbed form of vitamin K2(menaquinone MK - 7). It exhibits multidirectional health-promoting effects, including improving bone mineralization or enhancing blood clotting processes. However, there are scientific reports testifying to its many other, hitherto underestimated functions.
The formula is made from 100% natto - a natural, fermented soy product from Japan. Studies have shown that menaquinone vitamins are absorbed almost completely from the gastrointestinal tract (the K1 form only in 10 - 15%). In addition, the MK-7 form works in our body for a much longer time.
K2 MK-7 and blood clotting
A long-known effect of vitamin K is its influence on blood clotting. Its presence determines the proper functioning of thrombin and clotting factors (II, VII, IX, X), thanks to which it is possible to inhibit bleeding. Clotting factors are synthesized in the liver in an inactive form, and their activation involves the conversion of the glutamine residues of the precursors of these proteins to gamma-carboxyglutamine residues. The described reaction is catalyzed by an enzyme called gamma - carboxylase, the action of which is possible only in the presence of vitamin K. Gamma - carboxyglutamine residues have a high affinity for calcium ions, which allows the normal course of blood clotting.
K2 MK-7 and the cardiovascular system
One of the causes of the development of cardiovascular diseases is the deposition of calcium-phosphate salts in the walls of blood vessels. Numerous scientific studies indicate that vitamin K is essential to counteract this process. Vascular smooth muscle cells have been shown to produce MGP ( Matrix Gla Protein), which inhibits calcification processes. However, its action is dependent on vitamin K and is impossible without it. It has been suggested that this vitamin may reduce the risk of arterial calcification, and thus hypertension and heart attacks.
K2 MK-7 and the skeletal system
Vitamin K's well-recognized function is also its positive effect on the metabolism of the skeletal system. It enhances bone mineralization and regulates the metabolism of osteoblasts - bone-forming cells. Its contribution to this mechanism is analogous to its action in the case of blood clotting. Thanks to vitamin K, it is possible to activate an enzyme produced by osteoblasts - osteocalcin.
Osteocalcin, in turn, is responsible for increasing osteoblastogenesis (bone cell formation), reduces bone breakdown and enhances bone mineralization. Therefore, it can be concluded that vitamin K has a preventive role in one of the most common (especially in postmenopausal women) skeletal diseases - osteoporosis.
K2 MK-7 and the nervous system
There are also scientific studies outlining the positive effects of vitamin K on the functioning of the nervous system. It has been noted that it can counteract the development of Alzheimer's disease. Other work has also found it to be involved in the synthesis of sphingolipids - molecules that make up the cell membranes of neurons. It has been suggested that it may have an impact on proper signal transmission in the brain.
K2 MK-7 and anti-cancer factor
Some researchers have suggested a correlation between vitamin K levels in the body and the occurrence of cancer. In vitro studies have shown its inhibitory effect on the proliferation (division) of various cancer cells, including breast, liver and colon. A positive effect of menaquinone supplementation on prolonging the life of liver cancer patients has also been noted.
In conclusion, Swanson Vitamin K2 is a sensational dietary supplement with a very broad health-promoting effect. It can be used to improve blood clotting, in the prevention of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. For the latter disease, it has been shown to have the best effects when combined with vitamin D and calcium supplementation. Vitamin K can also support the body in the fight against cancer and nervous system disorders.