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Can I Take Vitamin K2 on its Own?

Vitamin K is a group of vitamins found in some green vegetables, with vitamins K1 (phytonadione) and K2 (menaquinone) common supplements.

While vitamin K1 is found in plant foods like leafy green vegetables, broccoli and Brussels sprouts, vitamin K2 foods include animal-based ones like beef liver and cheese and fermented foods — the body can partly convert vitamin K1 to K2, but this process may be inefficient.

Vitamin K is an essential vitamin that is needed for blood clotting, bone building and calcium metabolism, dental health and heart health. Taking vitamins K2 and K1 by mouth can even help those with osteoporosis. Vitamin K2 can be broken down into subtypes, with the important ones including MK-4 and MK-7.

When you’re looking for the best vitamin K2 supplement, while it can taken on its own, keep in mind that the benefits of K2 may be enhanced when taken with a vitamin D supplement as they may work together.

Does vitamin K2 cause blood clots? Yes, it helps make four of the 13 needed proteins for blood clotting. Blood clotting prevents excessive bleeding when a blood vessel is injured. In this way, vitamin K2 is not a blood thinner, it’s even used to reverse the blood thinning effects of warfarin.

As for vitamin K2 side effects, like vitamin K1, it’s likely safe when taken appropriately. A vitamin K2 dosage of 45mg daily or for, vitamin K1, 10mg daily, has been safely used for up to 2 years, but side effects may include an upset stomach or diarrhoea.