Vitamin K2 is now hitting critical mass and is taking its place among dietary supplements that are best supported by clinical evidence.
- Market is expected to continue its double-digit growth in the coming years, with an expected CAGR of +10-15% growth over 2021-2025.
- New product launches featuring Vitamin K2 enjoy solid growth, with a +30% increase in new products launched since 2015.
What is Vitamin K2?
Historically, K vitamins were thought to be a single vitamin, referred to as Vitamin K. However, K vitamins are a group of fat-soluble vitamins whose function is significant for human health.
The two most important forms are Vitamins K1 (phylloquinone) and K2 (menaquinones). Vitamin K1 is the principal source of dietary Vitamin K and is needed for proper blood coagulation.
Meanwhile, Vitamin K2 is essential to build and maintain strong bones, as well as to avoid calcium deposits in the arteries.
The two most commercialized forms of Vitamin K2 are MK-4 and MK-7. Due to its side chain, MK-7 has a much longer half-life in the body than MK-4, allowing it greater access to tissues beyond the liver. Further, the serum half-life of MK-4 has been shown to be just a few hours compared to a 3+ day half-life for MK-7.
Learn why vitamin K2 as MK-7 is the most optimal form of vitamin K here.
