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Vitamin K: High Doses of MK-4 and MK-7 Show Promising Results
It seems as though doctors in the U.S. focus primarily on medications to treat osteoporosis, many of which have undesirable side effects.
I find it curious that doctors never seem to mention taking high doses of Vitamin K, which has few side effects and has shown promising results in Japanese studies that indicate vitamin K2, specifically MK-4 and MK-7, may improve bone health. MK-4 has been prescribed for osteoporosis in Japan because studies there showed it had benefits in bone density and strength.
Based on this information, I recently started taking 180mcg of Menaquinone-7 (MK7) TrueVantage brand and 45,000 mcg (45 mg) of vitamin K2 (menaquinone-4) - Life Extension K2 High Potency brand.
AI Assist says that it's okay to take both forms: “Taking vitamin K2 in both MK-4 and MK-7 forms together can be beneficial, as they have different properties and roles in the body. MK-4 has a shorter half-life and is quickly metabolized, while MK-7 has a longer half-life and remains active for a longer period, supporting continuous bone and cardiovascular health. Combining both forms may provide comprehensive support for bone health and calcium metabolism.”
Here are a couple articles on this: https://naturalhealthresearch.org/vitamin-k2-and-bone-loss/
https://www.lifeextension.com/magazine/2022/3/bone-loss-vitamin-k-high-dose
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@luckypup I'm not sure if you've seen posts from people recommending MK-4 in 15mg doses, taken 3 times a day to total 45mg, because that's the dosage used in the Japanese studies. I read an article that said taking one 45mg dose was okay and I will do more research on that.
It's hard to find MK-4 supplements in 15mg doses, and they are all pretty expensive. One brand is: Klaire Labs SFI Health Ultra K2 Menaquinone - 4 - Vitamin K2 Supplement with 15mg of Vitamin K2 MK4 per Capsule that is $66 on Amazon.
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2 Reactions@lynnc75 Yes, I just started taking high doses of Vitamin K in the forms of MK-4 and MK-7. For more information on this, search under this support group for this discussion: "Vitamin K: High Doses of MK-4 and MK-7 Show Promising Results"
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2 Reactions@daisy17 Thank you! I will check that out.
@luckypup
If no one has mentioned it before, keep your medical providers informed about any supplements you take.
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2 Reactions@gravity3 Yes, trying to do that. Thank you
Hi, and thank you for all the information that you contribute. I just ordered the vitamins that you listed in 'I recently started taking'. Now, please, I need some additional advice. I am guessing you did some research on how to take these. What time of day, which ones can be taken at the same time? I also ordered calcium gummies, so I don't want to take them with another supplement unless it's advised. I want all this to work. Any information on this subject from anyone would be appreciated.
Thanks, Missmoo
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1 Reaction@missmoo I take all my vitamins, except calcium and magnesium, at the same time, before breakfast.
I have thyroid issues so have to take my calcium around lunch time, when I take 1/2 dose of New Chapter Bone Strength calcium tablets. Otherwise, I would take it along with my vitamins in the morning.
I take the magnesium glycinate in the evening because it shouldn't be taken along with calcium and it helps relax muscles for sleep.
I take my protein power and collagen powder smoothie mid-afternoon along with the prunes and sometimes a few walnuts. I take two fish oil capsules at different times during the day. In the evening I eat one Seen chew.
I don't think any of this will increase my BMD much, if at all. I'm just hoping it helps me maintain what I have.
@daisy17
@missmoo Thanks so very much for all your advice. You have been a wealth of information. I apparently have pre-osteoporosis, and the doctors are advising me to go on Prolia, and I'm not doing it. I'm slim, probably too slim, but still remodel homes for clients and am up and down ladders and do physical work.
I am not ready to give in. Keep your advice coming. FYI.....our cat's name is Miss Moo! HA!
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3 Reactions@missmoo Wow, I'd never go on Prolia if I only has osteopenia, because I've read it's basically a life-long drug. If you ever stop taking it, you are at great risk for fracture if you don't go on a bisphosphonate.
A great resource on Facebook is page "Brick House Bones" by a physical therapist who specializes in osteoporosis, Dr Lisa Moore. She has lots of free exercise videos and advice. She doesn't allow any discussion on medications though.
FYI, I am 76 and my worst T-score is in my spine at -4.1. I can't take Forteo or Tymlos due to parathyroid issues. I don't know if I could take Prolia even if I wanted to. I am very careful with my movements so I don't fracture.
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