Understanding Vitamin K2 and its Importance for Health. The Number 1 Food Highest in Vitamin K2

Vitamin K is a group of fat-soluble vitamins that are essential for the human body. While Vitamin K1 is crucial for blood clotting, Vitamin K2 is critical for calcium transportation in the body. Vitamin K2 is known to activate certain proteins and help with the proper functioning of the body, such as improving bone health, supporting insulin sensitivity, and preventing calcification of arteries. In this article, we will explore the benefits of Vitamin K2 in detail and understand why it is essential for overall health and well-being.

History of Vitamin K2

Dr. Weston Price, a dentist who did extensive research in the 1930s and 1940s, was one of the first to uncover the importance of Vitamin K2. He traveled to remote cultures that ate healthy diets and observed the excellent health of their teeth and bones. Dr. Price found that these cultures consumed foods such as grass-fed butter and cheese and was determined to find out why their teeth and bones were so strong. He concluded that the secret to their health was a mysterious factor he called Activator X, which he believed was essential for good health. However, Vitamin K2 was not yet identified and was only discovered years later.

Vitamin K2 and Calcium Transportation

Vitamin K2 works with Vitamin D to help the body absorb calcium in the intestines. Vitamin D increases the amount of calcium in the blood, while Vitamin K2 takes it to the next level by mo

ving the calcium from the bloodstream into the bones. This is achieved by activating certain proteins, and Vitamin K2 uses LDL, which is often referred to as the “bad cholesterol,” as a transport system to reach the bones. This makes the bones stronger, improves teeth health, prevents calcification of the arteries, and prevents arthritis by keeping calcium from building up in the joints.

Other Benefits of Vitamin K2

Vitamin K2 is not only beneficial for bone health and calcium transportation, but it also has other health benefits. Vitamin K2 improves insulin sensitivity, making it helpful for individuals with insulin resistance. It increases energy levels in the muscles and supports cells that produce testosterone. Vitamin K2 is also beneficial for the brain, improving spatial learning and memory. Furthermore, Vitamin K2 helps prevent calcification in the arteries and joints, making it essential for overall health.

Sources of Vitamin K2

The majority of Vitamin K2 is produced by bacteria, and when cows consume grass, Vitamin K1 is converted into Vitamin K2 through the action of bacteria. Foods such as natto, a Japanese dish made from fermented soybeans, and cheese, particularly Gouda, are rich in Vitamin K2. However, there is currently no recommended daily allowance (RDA) for Vitamin K2, making it essential to consume a balanced diet that includes foods rich in Vitamin K2.

Conclusion

Vitamin K2 is a critical nutrient that plays an essential role in the proper functioning of the human body. It helps with calcium transportation, improves insulin sensitivity, supports testosterone production, and has other health benefits. While Vitamin K1 is crucial for blood clotting, Vitamin K2 is essential for overall health and well-being. It is recommended to consume a balanced diet that includes foods rich in Vitamin K2, such as natto and Gouda cheese, to ensure adequate intake of this important vitamin.