Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin K
For the health condition: Calcium Deposits
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Vitamin K, particularly in the form of vitamin K2 (menaquinone), has a scientific basis for its use in supporting the regulation of calcium deposition in the body. Vitamin K acts as a cofactor for the activation of matrix Gla protein (MGP), a potent inhibitor of vascular and soft tissue calcification. Without sufficient vitamin K, MGP remains inactive and is unable to prevent inappropriate calcium deposits in blood vessels and soft tissues. Several observational and some interventional studies in humans have found that higher vitamin K status is associated with reduced progression of arterial calcification and improved cardiovascular outcomes. For example, a 2004 study published in "The Journal of Nutrition" found that higher dietary intake of vitamin K2 was linked to reduced arterial calcification and lower risk of coronary heart disease. Interventional studies, such as the 2015 "VitaK-CAC" trial, have shown that vitamin K2 supplementation may slow the progression of vascular calcification in certain populations, although results are not universally consistent and larger randomized controlled trials are needed. Despite these uncertainties, the underlying biochemistry is well-established, and vitamin K deficiency is a recognized risk factor for abnormal calcium metabolism. Therefore, there is moderate scientific validation (rated 3/5) for the use of vitamin K to support proper calcium deposition and to potentially prevent or treat pathological calcium deposits.
Other health conditions supported by vitamin K
Bleeding (external)Bleeding (internal)
Broken Bones
Bruises (healing)
Bruises (prevention)
Calcium Deficiency
Calcium Deposits
Cardiovascular Disease
Nose Bleeds
Osteoporosis