We examined how Menaquinone-4, a form of vitamin K2, could help protect the heart during a critical event known as ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, which often occurs after heart attacks. In our study, we used thirty-two rats, dividing them into three groups: a control group that experienced I/R without treatment, a group that received MK-4 before the injury, and another group that got MK-4 at the beginning of the recovery phase.
By using a specialized apparatus to assess heart function, we measured various indicators of heart health, including the pressure the heart could generate and rates of heart contractions. We also examined markers of heart damage and stress, like enzymes and inflammatory signals.
Our findings were promising. The group that received MK-4 after the I/R injury showed a significant reduction in the size of heart damage, alongside improved heart function. This group also had lower levels of markers related to heart stress and damage, indicating that MK-4 might help the heart recover from the stress of a heart attack. Overall, these results suggest that vitamin K2 could be a valuable ally in enhancing heart health during recovery from ischemic events.
Read More
Menaquinone reduces heart attack riskDietary intake of menaquinone is associated with a reduced risk of coronary heart disease: the Rotterdam Study.
Study strongly supports vitamin K2 benefits
We explored the effect of dietary intake of menaquinone, commonly known as vitamin K2, on heart attack risk and overall heart health. The investigation drew on data from the Rotterdam Study, tracking 4,807 individuals who did not have prior heart attacks.
Through careful analysis, we observed a noteworthy finding: people who consumed higher amounts of menaquinone had a significantly reduced risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) and all-cause mortality. Specifically, those in the mid to upper intake levels of menaquinone exhibited a risk reduction of 27% and 57% for heart-related deaths compared to those with lower intake.
Interestingly, we found that menaquinone intake also seemed to correlate with lower instances of severe aortic calcification, suggesting its potential role in preventing vascular issues. On the other hand, our analysis indicated that phylloquinone, or vitamin K1, did not show any significant relationship with these health outcomes.
These findings underscore the importance of adequate menaquinone consumption as a potential strategy for heart attack prevention and cardiovascular health improvement.
Read More