JAMA Cardiology publishes VitaK-CAC Trial, a 2-year study using MenaQ7®, confirming that Vitamin K2 as MK-7 supplementation produced nearly one-third less progression of coronary artery calcification, a recognized predictor of cardiovascular disease, compared with placebo.
When Calcium Builds Up, Cardiovascular Risk Goes Up
Coronary artery calcification (CAC) occurs when calcium deposits form within the walls of the coronary arteries, hardening them and reducing their natural flexibility. It is a major indicator of atherosclerosis and a well-established risk factor for cardiovascular issues. Severe cases, often measured by high CAC scores, indicate advanced coronary artery disease. According to the trial’s authors, this process results from an imbalance in the body’s calcification regulatory mechanisms, and an important natural inhibitor is matrix Gla protein (MGP). This vitamin K-dependent protein actively works to stop calcium from depositing in arterial walls.
MenaQ7® Continues To Be Trusted by Researchers
The trial enrolled 180 patients with coronary artery disease, randomized to receive either 360 mcg of Vitamin K2 MK-7 daily or a placebo for 24 months. Progression of coronary artery calcification was evaluated using two complementary imaging measures: the Agatston score — the gold-standard method for quantifying calcium deposits in the coronary arteries — and calcium mass, which provides a more precise measure of the extent of calcification. The study also monitored dp-ucMGP levels, a validated biomarker reflecting the body’s ability to inhibit vascular calcification by activating vitamin K-dependent matrix Gla protein (MGP).
Unprecedented Findings in Coronary Arteries Calcium Balance
The Vitamin K2 MK-7 group showed approximately 29% lower progression in the Agatston score and approximately 42% less progression in calcium mass versus placebo.
The authors concluded: “As both the Agatston and the calcium mass score pointed in the same direction, we are confident that Vitamin K2 MK-7 can slow down coronary calcification.” The group treated with Vitamin K2 MK-7 supplementation also had lower dp-ucMGP levels, supporting a positive effect on this key calcification biomarker.
These findings add to a substantial and growing body of evidence around MenaQ7®: “Almost two decades of clinical research on MenaQ7® has demonstrated its significant cardiovascular benefits, including maintaining arterial elasticity, supporting normative blood pressure, and now supporting healthy calcium balance in coronary arteries,” says Kimmo Makinen, our Head of Scientific Affairs at Gnosis by Lesaffre.
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MenaQ7® is the only clinically proven vitamin K2 as MK-7 for bone and heart health. With 22+ clinical studies that prove safe and effective health benefits, MenaQ7® offers the highest quality and sustainability commitments with the purest Vitamin K2 molecule derived from natural fermentation in our European manufacturing site.
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