Dietary deficiency of vitamin K is rare; malabsorption is the most common cause of deficiency. The body does not store a high amount of Vitamin K, and its absorption is highly dependent upon bile. For these reasons, gallbladder patients, people with NAFLD and and small bowel malabsorption may develop vitamin K deficiency.
Additionally research suggests the Western diet may not contain sufficient Vitamin K2-7 to optimize carboxylation of GLA outside the liver. Compared to other forms of Vitamin K, Vitamin K2-7 has a longer half-life, resulting in more stable levels in the body. Additionally vitamin K2 may help support healthy lipid levels and glucose metabolism.
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) and Vitamin K2-7 (menaquinone) work synergistically to help maintain bone health. Vitamin D3 helps maintain healthy serum calcium levels by promoting intestinal absorption and reducing urinary excretion of calcium. Vitamin K2-7 supports healthy bone mineralization by acting as a cofactor in the carboxylation of osteocalcin, allowing calcium to bind to this protein in the extracellular matrix of bone.
For best absorption of these fat soluble vitamins, take with a mixed meal or some healthy dietary fat.
