Description
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin (along with vitamins A, D, and E). It exists in various forms.
Why does the body need vitamin K?
Essential for proper absorption of calcium. Vitamin K regulates the activity of special proteins – matrix Gla-protein (MGP) and osteocalcin. Thanks to the first protein, calcium, which we get from food or from dietary supplements, is not deposited in the vessels, but is directed to the construction of bone tissue. Meanwhile, the second protein – osteocalcin – binds calcium in the bones and thereby helps maintain their density. By the way, vitamin K2 is a more powerful regulator of calcium metabolism compared to K1.
Helps maintain vascular and heart health. This effect is a consequence of the previous one. With improper absorption, calcium can be deposited in the vascular walls, on atherosclerotic plaques. The results of a number of studies confirm that taking vitamin K2 interferes with this process and reduces the risk of developing coronary heart disease.
Participates in the regulation of blood coagulation. Vitamin K is involved in the modification of a number of proteins in the blood coagulation system. Its deficiency leads to a decrease in the content of prothrombin and an increase in blood clotting time.
Helps maintain nervous system health and brain activity. Vitamin K is involved in the synthesis of sphingolipids. These are special lipids that are part of the membranes of nerve cells and the sheaths of nerve fibers. Maintaining a normal concentration of vitamin K helps slow down the negative changes in the nervous system and maintain full-fledged brain activity.
Helps increase insulin production.It turns out that the already known protein osteocalcin, which is activated by vitamin K2, is needed not only for bones. It is hypothesized that it may affect pancreatic beta cells and increase insulin production.
Shows anti-inflammatory properties. In particular, studies show that vitamin K2 can help reduce inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis.
Has an effect on immunity. In recent years, more and more reports have appeared about the immunomodulatory properties of vitamin K, various mechanisms of its influence on the defenses of our body are described.
Has antioxidant activity. In particular, vitamin K2 has been found to contribute to the protection of maturing nerve cells from oxidative damage.
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