Vitamin K2 is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an essential role in bone and cardiovascular health and maintaining healthy vision. It is a relatively new nutrient that has gained attention recently for its unique properties and potential health benefits. Unlike other forms of vitamin K, primarily involved in blood clotting, vitamin K2 helps regulate calcium metabolism and transport, which can have significant implications for eye health. This blog will explore the relationship between vitamin K2 and vision and how this nutrient can benefit your eyes.

The Different Forms of Vitamin K 

Vitamin K refers to a group of fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins K1, K2, and K3, each with unique bodily functions and benefits. 

• Vitamin K1, also known as phylloquinone, is primarily found in leafy green vegetables and plays a vital role in blood clotting. 
• Vitamin K2, also known as menaquinone, has several subtypes, and it is responsible for regulating calcium metabolism and transport in the body. 
• Vitamin K3, also known as menadione, is a synthetic form of vitamin K primarily used in supplements. 

How Vitamin K2 Helps Maintain Eye Health

Vitamin K2 is essential in maintaining healthy eyesight by regulating calcium metabolism and transport. Calcium is necessary for various processes in the body, including nerve signaling and muscle contraction, but it can also accumulate in the wrong places and cause damage. Vitamin K2 helps ensure that calcium is directed to the right places, such as bones and teeth, and prevents it from accumulating in the eyes' delicate tissues, where it can contribute to age-related macular degeneration and other eye disorders. 

Vitamin K2 and Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease affecting millions worldwide. It is characterized by the macula's deterioration, the retina's central part responsible for sharp, central vision. Studies have shown that vitamin K2 may play a role in preventing and treating AMD by reducing inflammation, improving blood flow, and protecting against oxidative stress. Additionally, vitamin K2 helps maintain the health of the retina's supporting tissues by regulating calcium deposition, which can slow the progression of the disease.

Vitamin K2 Deficiency and Eye Health

Vitamin K2 deficiency is relatively rare but can have significant implications for eye health. Without enough vitamin K2, calcium can accumulate in the wrong places, including the eyes' delicate tissues, increasing the risk of eye diseases such as AMD. Additionally, vitamin K2 deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of osteoporosis, a condition that can also affect eye health. To ensure optimal eye health and prevent deficiency, consuming a balanced diet that includes foods rich in vitamin K2 or supplementation is essential.

Food Sources of Vitamin K2 

Vitamin K2 is found in a variety of animal and fermented foods, including:

• Natto (fermented soybeans)
• Hard and soft cheeses
• Egg yolks
• Butter and ghee
• Chicken and goose liver
• Grass-fed beef and dairy
• Fermented vegetables (e.g., sauerkraut)
• Cod liver oil
• Salmon
• Mackerel

It is important to note that the vitamin K2 content in these foods can vary widely depending on the animal's diet and the fermentation process. Consulting a healthcare professional or registered dietitian is recommended to ensure adequate intake of vitamin K2.

Recommended daily intake of vitamin k2 

The recommended daily intake of vitamin K2 varies depending on age, gender, and overall health status. Currently, there is no established daily intake recommendation for vitamin K2 specifically. However, the Adequate Intake (AI) for vitamin K in adults is 90-120 micrograms daily. Since vitamin K2 is a subtype of vitamin K, the AI for vitamin K is assumed to include vitamin K2. It is important to note that vitamin K2 supplementation should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure proper dosing and safety.

How to Ensure Proper Absorption of Vitamin K2

Proper absorption of vitamin K2 can be enhanced by consuming it with dietary fat. Vitamin K2 is a fat-soluble vitamin that requires fat for

absorption and transportation throughout the body. Therefore, it is recommended to consume vitamin K2-rich foods along with healthy fats, such as olive oil or avocado, to enhance absorption. Additionally, it is essential to maintain a healthy gut microbiome, as the bacteria in the gut play a crucial role in synthesizing and metabolizing vitamin K2.

Precautions and Risks of Vitamin K2 Supplementation

While vitamin K2 supplementation is generally considered safe, there are some precautions and risks to be aware of. High doses of vitamin K2 may interfere with blood-thinning medications such as warfarin, so individuals taking these medications should consult their healthcare provider before taking vitamin K2 supplements. Additionally, individuals with liver or kidney disease should use caution when supplementing with vitamin K2. Finally, like any supplement, purchasing vitamin K2 from a reputable source is crucial, and following dosing instructions carefully to avoid any potential adverse effects.

Conclusion

Ephuroalabs' Vitamin K2 supplement provides a convenient and effective way to ensure optimal vitamin K2 intake, which is crucial in maintaining good vision. By regulating calcium metabolism and transport, vitamin K2 helps prevent calcium accumulation in the eyes' delicate tissues, reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration and other eye disorders. Additionally, the supplement is formulated to enhance vitamin K2 absorption and contains a safe and appropriate dose of the vitamin. Incorporating Ephuroalabs' Vitamin K2 supplement into a healthy lifestyle can help support long-term eye health and overall well-being.