What is the difference between Vitamin K1, MK-4, and MK-7?**

t is the difference between Vitamin K1, MK-4, and MK-7?** A: Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) is found mainly in leafy green vegetables and is primarily involved in blood clotting. Vitamin K2 (menaquinone) encompasses several forms, with MK-4 and MK-7 being the most well-known. MK-4 is found in animal products and is notable for its role in bone and arterial health; it has a shorter half-life. MK-7, found in fermented foods like natto, has a longer half-life and is also recognized for its benefits in bone and cardiovascular health (NIH ODS).

Can I get enough MK-4 from my diet?**

n I get enough MK-4 from my diet?** A: MK-4 is found in animal products such as meat, eggs, and dairy, especially from grass-fed sources. While it's possible to obtain some MK-4 from diet, the amounts can vary significantly. Some research suggests that therapeutic levels often studied in trials, for example for bone health, may be higher than typically achieved through diet alone (Examine.com).

Is Vitamin K2 MK-4 safe for long-term use?**

min K2 MK-4 safe for long-term use?** A: At commonly studied and recommended doses, Vitamin K2 MK-4 is generally considered safe for long-term use. There is no established tolerable upper intake level (UL) for Vitamin K by major health organizations. However, as with any supplement, periodic review with a healthcare provider is prudent (Mayo Clinic).

Does MK-4 interact with calcium and Vitamin D?**

ct with calcium and Vitamin D?** A: Yes, Vitamin K2 MK-4, Vitamin D, and calcium work synergistically, particularly for bone health. Vitamin D helps with calcium absorption, and K2 then helps direct that calcium to the bones and away from soft tissues like arteries. Many bone health strategies involve combinations of these nutrients (PubChem).

vitamin

Vitamin K2 MK-4

Also known as: Menatetrenone

Half-life

1 h

Typical timing

with_meal

Food rule

with food

Default unit

mcg

Studied for

Longevity

Overview

Vitamin K2 MK-4, also known as menatetrenone, is a fat-soluble vitamin and one of the forms of Vitamin K2. It is naturally found in certain animal products, such as meat, eggs, and dairy, particularly from grass-fed animals. Unlike Vitamin K1, which is primarily involved in blood clotting, Vitamin K2 forms, including MK-4, are recognized for their roles in calcium metabolism, bone health, and cardiovascular function (NIH ODS). MK-4 is unique among K2 forms due to its shorter side chain and its ability to be endogenously synthesized in some animal tissues from Vitamin K1. However, dietary intake is considered important for optimal levels in humans (Examine.com). Research on MK-4 often focuses on its potential to support bone mineral density, maintain arterial flexibility, and its broader implications for longevity by optimizing various K-dependent proteins in the body (PubChem). It has a relatively short half-life compared to other K2 forms. Supplements containing MK-4 are commonly available, and it is usually recommended to take it with a meal due to its fat-soluble nature.

Deep dive

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Known interactions

Category rule: vitamin × medication
Note
Certain vitamins interact with specific medications (e.g., vitamin K with blood thinners).
Specific pairs are checked against a licensed source; confirm with your provider.

Frequently asked

Sources referenced

* NIH Office of Dietary Supplements * MedlinePlus (National Library of Medicine) * PubChem (National Center for Biotechnology Information) * Mayo Clinic * Examine.com * DrugBank * Cochrane Library (for specific reviews)

Stackwise compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician.

Related compounds

Others in the vitamin category or studied for the same goals.

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Studied for

Overview

Deep dive

How it works

Studied benefits

State of the evidence

Side effects

Warnings & who should avoid it

Contraindications

Do not mix with

Timing, food & half-life

Known interactions

Frequently asked

What is the difference between Vitamin K1, MK-4, and MK-7?**

Can I get enough MK-4 from my diet?**

Is Vitamin K2 MK-4 safe for long-term use?**

Does MK-4 interact with calcium and Vitamin D?**

Sources referenced

Related compounds

Related benefits

Longevity

Continue exploring

Track Vitamin K2 MK-4 in Stackwise