Now Foods

MK-7 Vitamin K-2 100mcg

• Bioactive form of vitamin K2, MK7
• Obtained from fermented soybean (Natto)
• Prevents cardiovascular diseases
• Anticancer properties
• Involved in blood clotting
• Takes care of the skeletal system
• Strengthens bones and teeth
• Prevents osteoporosis

MK-7 Vitamin K-2 by NOW FOODS is a dietary supplement which contains highly bioavailable vitamin K2, in the MK7 form, obtained from fermented natto soybean, in a dose of 100 mcg in each capsule.

Vitamin K – is a group of chemical compounds which are derivatives of 2-methyl-1,4-naphthoquinone. It is produced by bacteria which are present in the large intestine. Similarly to vitamins A, D and E, it is oil-soluble. It is present in broccoli, spinach, cucumbers and avocado.

There are two forms of vitamin K2: MK4, which is produced in animal tissues, and MK7, which is characterised by higher bioavailability and durability in the digestive system. The natural MK7 form is obtained from fermented soybean (natto).

Vitamin K2 deficiencies
Vitamin K2 deficiencies are particularly common in people using anticoagulants, after antibiotic treatment and having problems with intestines and liver. The symptoms of vitamin K2 deficiencies include bleeding gums, problems with wound healing, frequent bone fractures and hypertension.

Support for the skeletal system
Vitamin K2, together with vitamin D and calcium, is responsible for the maintenance of healthy bones, teeth and the whole skeletal system. This is because of its ability to regulate osteocalcin functioning, which is a protein synthesised in the cells responsible for bone formation, osteoblasts. The main function of osteocalcin is binding and uptake of the natural building material of bones, calcium. This function is determined by the proper concentration of vitamin K2 in plasma; its deficiency can lead to reduction in bone mass, osteoporosis, increased risk of injuries and bone fractures. K2 counteracts bone resorption, as it inhibits the activity of osteoclasts, which are bone depredating cells.

Clinical trials conducted in the Netherlands proved that vitamin K2 is particularly important for menopausal women. It maintains the proper bone durability, improves mineral content and the width of femoral neck.

Healthy cardiovascular system
As it contributes to calcium uptake, vitamin K2 can be used for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Accumulation of calcium-phosphate salts is associated with reduced elasticity of blood vessels, which results in higher risk of atherosclerosis and infarction. It turns out that vitamin K2 can prevent blood vessel calcification, as it regulates production of MGP protein which binds calcium-phosphate salts and prevents their accumulation.

For a very long time, vitamin K2 has been known for its influence on blood clotting. It regulates clotting factors, such as prothrombin, proconvertin (factor VII), Christmas factor (IX factor) and GLA proteins synthesised in the liver.

Anticancer properties
Clinical trials demonstrate that supplements containing vitamin K2 MK7 support traditional treatment of such cancers as liver, breast, skin and lung cancer. Potential mechanism is based on strong antioxidant properties; the vitamin restores oxidative balance, as it reduces negative effects of excessive amounts of reactive oxygen species, balances the amounts of free radicals and antioxidants as well as inhibits the growth of cancer cells and kills them.

To sum it all up, MK-7 Vitamin K-2 by NOW FOODS is a dietary supplement characterised by the highest-quality vitamin which is perfectly absorbed by the digestive system. The product is recommended especially within prevention of the diseases of the cardiovascular and skeletal systems.