This little-known vitamin is generally neglected amongst as a supplement for cardiovascular support. More research is being conducted, but the results so far have shown some positive results, in preventing heart disease related to hardened arteries.
Heart and circulatory diseases cause a quarter of all deaths in the UK (more than 170,000 deaths each year – an average of 480 deaths each day). There are around 7.6 million people living with a heart or circulatory disease in the UK: 4 million men and 3.6 million women. This statistic is even more alarming for people of colour: Black Africans, African Caribbeans and South Asians in the UK have a disproportionately higher risk of developing high blood pressure and diabetes compared to White Europeans.
In recent years, scientific research has shed light on the cardiovascular benefits of Vitamin K2, a lesser-known nutrient within the Vitamin K family. We’ll take a brief look at how this vitamin can benefit heart health and how to add this to your diet.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Numerous studies have demonstrated the role of Vitamin K2 in promoting cardiovascular well-being. Vitamin K2 is crucial for the activation of Matrix Gla-protein (MGP), a protein responsible for reducing the calcification of arterial walls. By preventing excessive calcium deposition in blood vessels, Vitamin K2 helps maintain arterial elasticity, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis (clogged arteries) and cardiovascular diseases.
Moreover, Vitamin K2 plays a pivotal role in regulating blood clotting. It activates proteins involved in preventing excessive blood clot formation, promoting a balanced coagulation system. This contributes to a reduced risk of arterial thrombosis and related cardiovascular complications.
The added benefit of vitamin K2 is that it helps keep calcium in the bones, where it’s really required, rather than in the arteries, when it can cause damage. This ever-important vitamin helps maintain bone health, whilst providing cardiovascular support.
Food Sources of Vitamin K2
To harness the cardiovascular benefits of Vitamin K2, it is essential to incorporate foods rich in this nutrient into the diet. Fermented foods, particularly natto, a Japanese soybean product, stand out as an exceptional source of Vitamin K2. Additionally, dairy products like cheese and certain types of meat, such as liver and chicken, contain appreciable amounts of Vitamin K2.
By adding Vitamin K2-rich foods into a balanced diet, you can proactively support your cardiac health. There is a growing amount of scientific research supporting the benefits of Vitamin K2 in cardiovascular well-being, making it a great addition for people aiming to optimize their heart health.
pHKind Immunity & Energy offers a synergistic combination of vitamin D and K2 alongside optimum levels of methylated vitamin B12 and folate, to help support balanced homocysteine levels and help maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.
References:
Vitamin K2-a neglected player in cardiovascular health: a narrative review
Highlighting The Substantial Body Of Evidence Confirming The Importance Of Vitamin K2 As A Cardio-Support Nutrient, And How The Right K2 Makes All The Difference
Vitamin K2 Dependent Matrix Gla Protein Relating to Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm and Overall Mortality: A Combined Case Control and Cohort Study
