Vitamin K2 for heart health
Important for preventing calcification of heart and blood vessels
MONA E. MØLLER
Kappa Bioscience AS,
Gaustadalléen 21, 0349 Oslo, Norway
Abstract
The strong link between the silent arterial calcification and increased risk for cardiovascular events suggests needs for preventive actions. Research points to a pivotal role for the Matrix Gla protein (MGP), one of the strongest natural inhibitors of vascular calcification, in preventing calcification. Vitamin K2 (menaquinone-7, MK-7) is a key factor for MGP activation. However, vitamin K2 deficiencies are quite common in the general population. Newer research suggests that intake of vitamin K2 in dietary supplement doses may increase MGP activation and contribute to prevention of calcification of heart and blood vessels in healthy people.
INTRODUCTION
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) - large challenges to the society
Cardio ... ...