Vitamin K2 MK-7 (MenaQ7)

Vitamin K2 MK-7 (MenaQ7) is a bioactive form of menaquinone-7, a fat-soluble vitamin with no caloric macronutrient contribution. Active compound: menaquinone-7 (MK-7) at typical supplemental doses of 45–360 mcg per serving, with 100–200 mcg being the most clinically studied range. MenaQ7 is a patented, natural-source MK-7 derived from fermented chickpeas (Cicer arietinum) via Bacillus subtilis natto fermentation. Key bioactive compound: all-trans MK-7 isomer, which is the biologically active configuration; MenaQ7 standardizes for >97% all-trans content, distinguishing it from synthetic K2 sources that may contain inactive cis-isomers. Molecular weight: 649.0 g/mol. No protein, carbohydrate, fiber, or fat content inherent to the isolated ingredient itself. Micronutrient classification: fat-soluble vitamin (K family). Bioavailability notes: MK-7 has significantly superior bioavailability compared to MK-4 and vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) due to its longer side chain (7 isoprene units), resulting in a plasma half-life of approximately 72 hours versus 1–2 hours for K1. Absorption requires dietary fat co-ingestion; peak plasma concentration reached within 4–6 hours post-ingestion. MenaQ7 specifically demonstrates consistent carboxylation of osteocalcin and Matrix Gla Protein (MGP) at doses as low as 90 mcg/day. Serum binding occurs primarily via LDL and HDL lipoproteins. No known interference with warfarin at doses below 50 mcg in most individuals, though caution is advised.