Swanson

Vitamin K2

• Natural vitamin K2 MK-7
• Obtained from natto (GMO-free)
• Multifunctional pro-health potential
• Regulates the calcium levels in the bloodstream
• Supports skeletal and cardiovascular systems
• The element of anti-atherosclerosis prevention

Swanson Vitamin K2 is a dietary supplement in a form of gel capsules containing an extremely quickly absorbed form of vitamin K2 (menaquinone MK-7). It shows a multidirectional health promoting properties, i.a. thanks to the ability to improve bone mineralization or coagulation processes. However, there exist some scientific evidences that describe its other underestimated properties.

This preparation is produced from 100% natural fermented soy product which comes from Japan. The research has demonstrated that vitamins from menaquinones group are almost entirely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract (the K1 form only in 10-15%). Moreover, the MK-7 form works much longer in our body system.

K2 MK-7 and blood coagulation
The vitamin K influence on coagulation has been known for a very long time. Its presence determines the proper functioning of thrombin and coagulation factors (II, VII, IX, X), which are able to stop the bleeding. Coagulation factors are synthesized in the liver in an inactive form. Their activation involves converting the residues of glutamic precursors of these proteins to the gamma-carboxyglutamic residues.

The above described reaction is catalyzed by an enzyme called gamma-carboxylase, whose action is possible only in the presence of vitamin K. The gamma-carboxyglutamic residues are characterised by a high affinity for calcium ions, which allows for the proper coagulation process.

K2 MK-7 and cardiovascular system
One of the reasons for the development of cardiovascular diseases is the deposition of calcium-phosphate salts in the walls of blood vessels. Numerous scientific studies show that vitamin K is essential to counteract this process. It has been demonstrated that vascular smooth muscle cells produce a MGP protein (Matrix Gla Protein), which inhibits calcification processes. However, its action depends from vitamins K and it is impossible without them. It has been suggested that the vitamin may reduce the risk of arteries calcification and thanks to this fact – the risk of hypertension and myocardial infarction.

K2 MK-7 and skeletal system
A well-known function of vitamin K is also its positive influence on the metabolism of skeletal system. It increases bone mineralization and regulates the metabolism of osteoblasts – the cells that synthesise bones. Its contribution to this mechanism is similar to the action in the case of blood coagulation. Vitamin K enables the activation of an enzyme which is produced by the osteoblasts – osteocalcin.

Osteocalcin is responsible for the increase in osteoblastogenesis (the process of bone cells forming), it reduces the breakdown of bones and improves their mineralization. It can be concluded that vitamin K has a preventive role in one of the most common (especially in post-menopausal women) disease of the skeletal system – osteoporosis.

K2 MK-7 and nervous system
There also exist some scientific studies showing the positive impact of vitamin K on the functioning of the nervous system. It has been noted that it can counteract the development of Alzheimer's disease. Other studies describe its participation in the synthesis of sphingolipids – molecules which are components of cell membranes of neurons. It is suggested that it may have an impact on the proper transmission of signals in the brain.

K2 MK-7 and anti-cancer factor
Some scientists indicate the relationship between the vitamin K concentration in the body system and the occurrence of cancers. In vitro studies have demonstrated its inhibitory influence on proliferation (divisions) of different cancer cells, i.a. breast, liver or colorectal cancers. It has been noted that the supplementation with menaquinone has a positive impact on the life extension in patients with liver cancer.

To sum it all up, Swanson Vitamin K2 is a great dietary supplement with numerous health promoting properties. It can be used to improve the process of blood coagulation, in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and osteoporosis. In the case of the osteoporosis, it has been demonstrated that the best results are achieved when you combine the supplementation of vitamin D and calcium. Vitamin K can also support the body system in the fight against cancers and impaired functioning of the nervous system.