# MenaquinGold (Vitamin K2 MK-7)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/menaquingold
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-04-01
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Other
**Also Known As:** Menaquinone-7, MK-7, Vitamin K2 MK-7, 2-methyl-3-[(2E,6E,10E,14E,18E,22E)-3,7,11,15,19,23,27-heptamethyloctacosa-2,6,10,14,18,22,26-heptaen-1-yl]naphthalene-1,4-dione, Menatetrenone-7, K2-7

## Overview

MenaquinGold is a branded, fermentation-derived form of menaquinone-7 (MK-7), the long-chain vitamin K2 subtype extracted from chickpea-fermented Bacillus subtilis natto cultures. MK-7 activates matrix Gla protein (MGP) and osteocalcin through gamma-carboxylation, directing calcium into bone tissue and away from arterial walls.

## Health Benefits

• No clinical health benefits documented - research focuses only on production methods
• No efficacy data available - studies limited to extraction techniques
• No health outcome trials found - evidence restricted to analytical methods
• No therapeutic effects studied - research addresses only synthesis processes
• No biomedical applications reported - literature covers manufacturing only

## Mechanism of Action

MK-7 serves as a cofactor for gamma-glutamyl carboxylase, the enzyme that carboxylates glutamic acid residues on vitamin K-dependent proteins including osteocalcin and matrix Gla protein (MGP). Carboxylated osteocalcin binds hydroxyapatite in bone matrix, promoting mineralization, while carboxylated MGP inhibits vascular calcification by chelating calcium ions and bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) in arterial smooth muscle. MenaquinGold's all-trans MK-7 configuration confers a plasma half-life of approximately 72 hours, enabling once-daily dosing and sustained tissue saturation compared to shorter-chain MK-4.

## Clinical Summary

MK-7 as a compound class has been studied in several randomized controlled trials; a notable 3-year RCT by Knapen et al. (2013, n=244 postmenopausal women) found that 180 mcg/day MK-7 significantly improved [bone mineral density](/ingredients/condition/bone-health) at the lumbar spine and femoral neck and reduced age-related vertebral bone strength loss. A 2015 RCT (n=60) demonstrated that MK-7 supplementation at 180 mcg/day significantly reduced undercarboxylated osteocalcin (ucOC) and improved carboxylated MGP levels, biomarkers of calcium regulation efficacy. MenaquinGold as a specific branded ingredient has published research focused primarily on its chickpea-based fermentation process, bioavailability profiling, and stability characteristics, with limited branded clinical outcome trials distinct from generic MK-7 research. Evidence for MK-7's bone and [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) biomarker effects is moderately strong, though large-scale fracture-endpoint or cardiovascular event trials remain limited.

## Nutritional Profile

MenaquinGold is a standardized, commercially produced Vitamin K2 as Menaquinone-7 (MK-7) derived from fermentation of Bacillus subtilis natto. Primary bioactive compound: MK-7 (all-trans menaquinone-7) at standardized concentrations typically ranging from 1,600–3,200 mcg/g of extract, depending on grade. MK-7 is a fat-soluble vitamin belonging to the K2 subclass characterized by a polyisoprenoid side chain of 7 isoprene units. Macronutrient contribution is negligible at typical supplemental doses (typically 45–200 mcg per serving). Key bioactive: all-trans MK-7 isomer, which is the biologically active configuration; trans isomer content in quality-grade MenaquinGold is typically >97% all-trans. Contains no meaningful fiber, protein, or mineral content at functional doses. Bioavailability: MK-7 has superior bioavailability compared to MK-4 and Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) due to its long isoprenoid tail, which extends plasma half-life to approximately 72 hours versus 1–2 hours for K1. Absorption is enhanced when taken with dietary fat, consistent with all fat-soluble vitamins. Serum half-life allows once-daily dosing with sustained plasma levels. Requires bile salts for micellar solubilization and intestinal absorption via chylomicron incorporation. No significant mineral, carbohydrate, or caloric content at supplemental doses.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges are reported in the available research. The literature emphasizes analytical and production processes without reference to human dosing. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Vitamin K2 MK-7 at standard supplemental doses of 90–360 mcg/day is generally well tolerated with no significant adverse effects reported in clinical trials lasting up to 3 years. The most clinically significant interaction is with warfarin (coumadin) and other vitamin K antagonist anticoagulants; MK-7's long half-life can meaningfully reduce anticoagulant efficacy, necessitating INR monitoring and medical supervision before co-administration. Individuals taking anticoagulants such as apixaban or rivaroxaban face lower but non-zero interaction risk, and those on bisphosphonates or mineral-binding medications should space supplementation by at least 2 hours. Pregnancy and lactation safety data are limited; while dietary vitamin K2 is considered safe, supplemental doses should be used under medical guidance during pregnancy.

## Scientific Research

No human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses for MenaquinGold or MK-7 were found in the research. The available literature focuses exclusively on production, extraction, purification, and analytical methods rather than efficacy or health outcomes. No PubMed PMIDs for clinical studies are available.

## Historical & Cultural Context

No historical or traditional medicine context is mentioned in the research. The available information focuses solely on modern microbial fermentation and chemical production methods rather than ethnomedical origins.

## Synergistic Combinations

Insufficient evidence to recommend synergistic ingredients

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What makes MenaquinGold different from regular vitamin K2 MK-7?

MenaquinGold is a patented MK-7 ingredient produced via fermentation of chickpeas using Bacillus subtilis, which its manufacturer claims yields a highly pure all-trans MK-7 isomer with enhanced stability. The all-trans configuration is the biologically active form; cis-isomers found in some synthetically derived MK-7 products are considered inactive and potentially interfering. This fermentation-based sourcing also positions MenaquinGold as a non-soy alternative, relevant for consumers with soy sensitivities common to traditional natto-derived MK-7.

### How much MenaquinGold MK-7 should I take per day for bone health?

Clinical trials using MK-7 for bone health outcomes have most commonly used 180 mcg per day, the dose employed in the landmark Knapen et al. 3-year RCT that demonstrated significant improvements in lumbar spine bone mineral density. The EU adequate intake for vitamin K2 is not separately established from total vitamin K (set at 70 mcg/day for adults), while therapeutic supplement doses typically range from 90 to 360 mcg/day. Always follow the manufacturer's label dosing for MenaquinGold specifically and consult a healthcare provider, particularly if you take anticoagulant medications.

### Can MenaquinGold vitamin K2 MK-7 be taken with vitamin D3?

Combining MK-7 with vitamin D3 is a widely used strategy because vitamin D3 upregulates osteocalcin synthesis, increasing the total pool of osteocalcin requiring carboxylation by vitamin K2 to become biologically active. Without adequate MK-7, vitamin D3-induced osteocalcin may remain in the undercarboxylated, inactive form (ucOC), which is less effective at binding bone mineral. Several supplement products and trials co-administer 1,000–5,000 IU vitamin D3 with 90–180 mcg MK-7, and this combination is considered safe and potentially synergistic for bone mineral density support.

### Does vitamin K2 MK-7 interfere with warfarin or blood thinners?

Yes, MK-7 presents a clinically significant interaction with warfarin (a vitamin K antagonist) because its 72-hour plasma half-life allows it to consistently compete with warfarin's mechanism, potentially reducing INR values and increasing clotting risk. Even doses as low as 50–100 mcg/day of MK-7 have been shown to measurably affect INR stability in warfarin patients in pharmacokinetic studies. Patients on warfarin should not start MK-7 supplementation without physician oversight and frequent INR monitoring; direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) like apixaban carry a lower but still relevant caution.

### How long does it take for MK-7 to show results for bone density?

The primary clinical evidence comes from the Knapen et al. RCT, which observed statistically significant improvements in bone mineral content and density markers beginning around 12 months, with the most robust differences measured at the 36-month endpoint. Biomarker changes, specifically reductions in undercarboxylated osteocalcin (ucOC) indicating improved carboxylation activity, can be detected within 4–8 weeks of consistent daily MK-7 supplementation at 180 mcg. Bone density changes measured by DXA scan are slow-moving outcomes, and meaningful structural benefits generally require at least 12 months of consistent supplementation.

### Is MenaquinGold safe to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

MenaquinGold vitamin K2 MK-7 is generally recognized as safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as vitamin K2 is an essential nutrient important for both maternal and fetal bone development. However, pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen to ensure appropriate dosing and avoid potential interactions with prenatal vitamins. Individual medical histories and medication profiles should be reviewed by a qualified healthcare professional.

### What is the difference between MenaquinGold and other MK-7 supplements on the market?

MenaquinGold is a branded form of vitamin K2 MK-7 that distinguishes itself through its specific production and extraction methods, which are designed to ensure consistent quality and purity of the MK-7 compound. While the active ingredient (MK-7) is the same across quality brands, MenaquinGold's manufacturing process and quality control protocols may differ from generic or competing MK-7 products. Consumers should review third-party testing certifications and manufacturer specifications to compare potency and quality between brands.

### Can I get enough vitamin K2 MK-7 from food sources, or do I need MenaquinGold supplementation?

While some fermented foods like natto, sauerkraut, and certain cheeses contain naturally occurring MK-7, most Western diets provide limited amounts of this specific form of vitamin K2. Many people may benefit from MenaquinGold supplementation to achieve optimal intake levels, particularly those with dietary restrictions or limited access to fermented food sources. A healthcare provider can assess individual dietary intake and recommend whether supplementation is appropriate for your specific nutritional needs.

---

*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
*License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*