Vitamin K2 for Bones and Arteries: MK-7, Calcium Direction, Daily Dosing
Overview
Vitamin K2 is used to help:
Direct calcium into bones and teeth
Keep calcium from depositing in arteries
Support long term skeletal and cardiovascular health
People often add K2 when they take vitamin D, use calcium, or want a simple, structural bone and artery check box in their stack.
Some users pair K2 with Vitamin D as part of their bone health routine.
What Vitamin K2 is and how it works
Vitamin K2 refers to menaquinones (MK forms), most commonly:
MK 7: long half life, once daily dosing
MK 4: shorter acting, higher mg doses
K2 activates proteins like osteocalcin (in bone) and matrix Gla protein (MGP) (in vessels), which helps use calcium where it is needed and limit buildup where it is not.
What you may get from K2 (over time)
Bone support
Helps osteocalcin function so calcium can better support bone strength, especially when vitamin D, protein, and resistance training are in place.
Artery protection
Supports MGP activation, which is involved in limiting vascular calcification. This is a long horizon, “quiet” benefit, not something you feel in a week.
Teeth and structural health
Some users include K2 for tooth and jaw support as part of a nutrient dense, high protein routine.
Safety, dosing and who should be careful
Side effects
GI upset
subtle headache
Drug interactions
Key caution:
If you take warfarin or other vitamin K dependent anticoagulants, do not change K intake without your prescriber.
Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are less K dependent but still warrant a check in.
Product quality
Choose:
Third party tested products
Clear listing of form (MK 7 or MK 4) and mcg per serving
Stable oil or capsule formats from known brands
Who should avoid unsupervised use
People on warfarin or similar meds without clinician guidance
Those with significant bleeding or clotting disorders managed medically
Anyone who develops unexplained bruising, bleeding, or clot symptoms
Final Thoughts
Vitamin K2 is a low effort addition for people thinking about bone density and arterial health, especially when using vitamin D or calcium. A simple, realistic plan is 90 to 200 mcg K2 daily with food, on top of lifting, protein, and overall nutrition. If your meds or condition touch clotting, clear it with your clinician first and then keep intake consistent.
