Keeping our blood vessels healthy is essential for a long, vibrant life. However, conditions like atherosclerosis – where plaque buildup causes the artery walls to thicken – pose a significant threat to many.
Vitamin K2 is a promising nutrient for heart health, particularly in helping reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. This article explores how K2 works, its benefits, and how Natural Factors Vitamin K2 can be a valuable addition to your daily routine.
Understanding Vitamin K2’s Role in Heart Health
Vitamin K2, part of the broader “K” vitamin family, plays a crucial role in managing calcium in the body. While calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, too much of it in our arteries can lead to calcification. An accumulation of calcium that hardens and narrows blood vessels increases the risk of cardiovascular problems. K2 acts as a “director” for calcium, ensuring it goes to the bones where it’s needed and stays out of arteries, reducing harmful plaque buildup.
Vitamin K2 achieves this through its interaction with the protein matrix Gla protein (MGP), which inhibits arterial calcification. When activated by K2, MGP binds to excess calcium in the bloodstream and prevents it from settling in the arterial walls.
Only the MK-7 form of K2, found in Natural Factors Vitamin K2, has shown sustained 24-hour activity, making it an effective one-per-day supplement for continuous cardiovascular support.
The Difference Between Vitamin K2 and K1
Unlike K1, which is found in green leafy vegetables and supports blood clotting, K2 specifically influences bone and heart health by regulating calcium placement.
While bacteria in the intestines can convert a small amount of K1 to K2, the conversion is minimal and insufficient for optimal cardiovascular benefits.
Foods rich in K2, like natto (fermented soybeans), grass-fed butter, and certain organ meats, are not common in Western diets. This is why supplementation can be essential, particularly with high-quality MK-7, a potent form of K2 derived from natto beans and included in Natural Factors’ formulation.
Atherosclerosis and Plaque Reduction: The K2 Advantage
Atherosclerosis involves the gradual buildup of plaques within arteries, restricting blood flow and putting extra strain on the heart. Scientific studies indicate that K2, particularly in the form of MK-7, can help counteract this process.
The MK-7 in Natural Factors Vitamin K2 offers extended action, effectively keeping the arteries free of calcium deposits throughout the day.
Why Choose Natural Factors Vitamin K2
Natural Factors Vitamin K2, featuring MK-7, provides a bioavailable form of this essential nutrient. MK-7 is highly effective in lower doses and requires only a single daily dose.
Natural Factors Vitamin K2 is derived naturally from natto, making it convenient for ensuring cardiovascular and bone health benefits without significantly altering diet.
Supporting Heart Health Naturally
By guiding calcium where it’s needed and away from where it can cause harm, vitamin K2 plays a vital role in maintaining heart health and protecting against atherosclerosis.
If you’re looking to support your cardiovascular system naturally, consider adding Natural Factors Vitamin K2 to your routine.