Calcium deposits in soft tissues can pose health concerns, as calcium is typically meant for bones and teeth. This nutrient, Vitamin K2, plays a role in directing calcium metabolism, helping ensure calcium is utilized in appropriate areas of the body.
What is Calcification?
Calcification is the accumulation of calcium salts within body tissues, causing them to harden. While calcium is essential for bones and teeth, its abnormal deposition in soft tissues can lead to various health issues. This process can occur in arteries, kidneys, heart valves, and joints. For example, arterial calcification contributes to stiffening, a risk factor for cardiovascular problems, and kidney deposits can lead to kidney stones. Some calcifications are harmless, but others disrupt organ function.
How Vitamin K2 Influences Calcium
Vitamin K2 manages where calcium is deposited within the body. It activates specific proteins like Matrix Gla Protein (MGP) and osteocalcin. MGP, found in soft tissues and blood vessels, helps prevent calcium accumulation and inhibits arterial calcification, which is important for cardiovascular health. Activated osteocalcin, produced by bone-forming cells, binds calcium to bone, promoting mineralization and strength. This dual action helps direct calcium to bones and teeth while discouraging its buildup in soft tissues.
Reversibility of Calcification
Current scientific understanding largely points towards prevention and slowing the progression of calcification rather than complete reversal, especially for established deposits. While some studies show promising results in reducing progression or even modest regression, fully undoing damage is not yet definitively established. Adequate vitamin K2 intake can lower the risk of vascular damage by activating MGP, which inhibits calcium deposits on arterial walls. This prevents further calcification and potentially improves arterial elasticity. Complete reversal of advanced calcification remains an area of ongoing research.
Navigating Vitamin K2 Dosages
Vitamin K2 exists in different forms, primarily MK-4 and MK-7. MK-4 is found in animal products like meat, eggs, and dairy, while longer-chain menaquinones like MK-7 are present in fermented foods such as natto and some cheeses. The body can partially convert vitamin K1 from plant foods into K2, but this process may be inefficient.
There is no universally agreed-upon “reversal” dose for calcification, and research is ongoing. Typical daily intake recommendations for vitamin K vary, with some guidelines suggesting 90 micrograms per day for adult women and 120 micrograms for adult men. For supplementation, MK-7 is often favored due to its longer half-life, meaning it stays active in the body for a longer period.
Studies exploring MK-7’s effects on cardiovascular health and calcification have used dosages ranging from 150 to 180 micrograms per day. For MK-4, research on osteoporosis treatment has explored higher dosages, such as 45 milligrams per day, often taken in divided doses due to its shorter half-life. Some studies have also used 100-200 micrograms daily of MK-7 for bone health. These dosages are general guidelines and not medical advice.
Key Considerations for Supplementation
When considering vitamin K2 supplementation, be aware of its synergy with Vitamin D. These two vitamins work together, with Vitamin D enhancing calcium absorption and Vitamin K2 ensuring proper calcium utilization.
Individuals taking blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin, should consult a healthcare professional before starting any vitamin K2 supplement. Vitamin K can interfere with these medications, potentially reducing their anticoagulant effects. While side effects from oral vitamin K at suggested doses are rare, allergic reactions or upset stomach can occur. Consulting a healthcare provider is important, especially for those with existing health conditions or on medication, to ensure safe and appropriate supplementation.