Vitamin K2 MK-4

What Is Vitamin K2 MK-4?

Vitamin K2 MK-4 is a specific form of Vitamin K2, part of the more prominent Vitamin K family. Vitamin K2 is known for its role in calcium metabolism and bone health. MK-4, or menaquinone-4, is one of the several subtypes of Vitamin K2. This subtype is notable for its short side chain and ability to convert to its active form in the body rapidly.

Vitamin K2 MK-4 is essential for activating proteins involved in calcium binding, which is crucial for maintaining bone density and cardiovascular health. This vitamin is widely used in dietary supplements, functional foods, personal care products, and animal nutrition due to its health-promoting properties.

Food Sources from

K2 Menaquinone-4 can be found in various natural sources, although it is often less abundant in typical diets compared to other forms of Vitamin K. Some of the primary sources include:

• Animal Products: The liver, mainly from poultry and beef, is a rich source of Vitamin K2-MK-4. Other sources include eggs and dairy products such as cheese and butter.
• Fermented Foods: Certain fermented foods, such as natto (fermented soybeans), contain Vitamin K2-MK-4, although natto is more commonly associated with MK-7.
• Supplements: Due to its health benefits and the challenge of obtaining sufficient amounts from diet alone, Vitamin K2-MK-4 is also available in concentrated forms in dietary supplements.

Is Vitamin K2 The Same As MK-4?

Vitamin K2 and MK-4 are related but not the same thing. Here’s the distinction:

Vitamin K2: This is a group of compounds called menaquinones, part of the larger vitamin K family. Vitamin K2 is essential for blood clotting, bone, and cardiovascular health.

MK-4 (Menaquinone-4): This is one specific form of vitamin K2. It is one of the several menaquinones, each distinguished by the length of its isoprenoid side chain. MK-4 has four isoprene units in its side chain.

In summary, MK-4 is a type of vitamin K2, but vitamin K2 includes several other menaquinones, such as MK-7, MK-8, and MK-9.

What does MK-4 mean?

MK-4 stands for menaquinone-4, which is a specific form of vitamin K2.

The “M” in MK-4 stands for menaquinone, while the “K” refers to vitamin K. The number “4” denotes that this particular menaquinone has four isoprene units in its side chain.

• Menaquinone (MK): This term refers to vitamin K2 compounds that have varying lengths of isoprenoid side chains.
• 4: This indicates four isoprene units in the side chain of this particular menaquinone.

Specification sheet reference

Vitamin K2 Factory/Manufacturer: How To Produce It?

The production of Vitamin K2-MK-4 involves several meticulous steps to ensure high purity and potency. Here is a detailed overview of the production process:

• Synthesis: Vitamin K2 MK-4 is primarily produced through chemical synthesis. This involves complex organic reactions from readily available precursors to create the menaquinone-4 molecule.
• Purification: The synthesized product is purified using various techniques, such as recrystallization and chromatography, to remove any impurities and ensure high purity.
• Quality Control: Varoius quality control measures are implemented, including high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC), to verify the purity and potency of the final product.
• Formulation: The purified VK2 MK-4 is then formulated into various forms, such as powders, capsules, or tablets, depending on the intended application.
• Packaging: The final product is sealed in airtight containers to shield it from light, moisture, and air, ensuring its stability and shelf life.

How Does It Work?

Vitamin K2 MK-4 works by activating proteins that regulate where calcium ends up in the body. This vitamin activates osteocalcin, a protein that binds calcium to the bone, enhancing bone density and strength. Additionally, it activates matrix Gla-protein (MGP), which inhibits calcification of blood vessels and soft tissues, promoting cardiovascular health. Activating these proteins is crucial for maintaining calcium balance and preventing osteoporosis and atherosclerosis.

Vitamin K2-MK-4 VS Vitamin D3

Both play crucial roles in calcium metabolism, but they work synergistically rather than interchangeably:

• Calcium Metabolism: Vitamin D3 enhances calcium absorption from the gut, while Vitamin K2 MK-4 directs calcium to the bones and away from arteries.
• Bone Health: Together, these vitamins optimize the mineralization and strength of the bone, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
• Cardiovascular Health: Vitamin K2 MK-4 helps prevent arterial calcification, while Vitamin D3 supports cardiovascular health.

Vitamin K2 MK-4: Health Benefits, Uses, And More

For Bone Health. It is critical for bone mineralization and strength. It helps in the formation of a strong bone matrix by activating osteocalcin. Studies have shown that Vitamin K2 MK-4 supplementation can make bones stronger, reducing the risk of fractures and improving bone density, particularly in postmenopausal women.

For Cardiovascular Health. By activating MGP, K2 MK-4 helps prevent calcification in the arteries, which is a significant factor for cardiovascular diseases. This vitamin thus supports heart health by maintaining flexibility in the arteries.

For Dental Health. Like its role in bone health, Vitamin K2 MK-4 contributes to dental health by aiding calcium deposition into teeth, promoting dental enamel formation and strength.

For Cancer Prevention. Some studies suggest that Vitamin K2 MK-4 may reduce the risk of certain cancers by inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells.

What Is Vitamin K2 MK-4 Used For?

First, Vitamin K2-MK-4 is widely used in dietary supplements to support bone and cardiovascular health. Secondly, this vitamin is incorporated into functional foods and beverages to improve the nutritional profile of the products and provide added health benefits. Then, its anti-inflammatory and skin-health-promoting properties make it a great ingredient for personal care products. The ingredient is widely used in creams, lotions, and serums in the personal care industry.

Dosage and Usage Recommendations

The standard dosage of Vitamin K2-MK-4 varies depending on one’s health status and the intended use of this ingredient. A regular dose ranges from 45 to 100 micrograms per day for general health maintenance. Stronger dosages may be recommended for specific conditions such as osteoporosis, often up to 45 milligrams per day, divided into several doses.

Side Effects: Yes or No?

Vitamin K2 MK-4 is generally considered safe for most people when taken at recommended doses. Potential side effects may happen, particularly when taken in high doses. Dizziness and stomach ache are some of the side effects of this ingredient. Allergic reactions, although rare, can occur and may manifest as skin rashes or itching. It is important to note that individuals on anticoagulant medications should use Vitamin K2-MK-4 with caution, as it can interfere with the action of these medications.

How To Store Vitamin K2 MK-4 Powder?

To maintain the effectiveness and potency of this ingredient, stow it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Make sure to stow it in an airtight container to protect it from moisture and air. Ensure the storage area is free from strong odors and chemicals. While room temperature storage is adequate, refrigeration is recommended for long-term storage. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s storage guidelines for optimal shelf life and product integrity.

Find Top Wholesale Vitamin K2 MK-4 Supplier: Nutri Avenue

Nutri Avenue is a leading global supplier of wholesale supplement ingredients, including Vitamin K2 MK-4. The company sources its Vitamin K2-MK-4 from high-quality natural sources and conducts rigorous testing to guarantee its purity and potency. We have several warehouses in the United States to better serve its clients. And we also can provide support on Mexico, Poland, Hungary, France, the United Kingdom, South American countries, including Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Uruguay, Paraguay, etc. For inquiries, visit our website.

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