Vitamin K2 is one of those supplements that most people still haven’t heard enough about. My dietitian and nutritionist have insisted on it for years, and my own research has shown me that it should be on a supplement stack for every athlete.
But just like with all vitamin products, there are plenty of low-quality brands out there that you want to avoid.
So, I spent two months with my dietitian and a dozen clients researching and testing over 40 different products to come up with this list of the best vitamin K2 supplements.
The Best Vitamin K2 Supplements
- Best Overall Vitamin K2 Supplement: Live Conscious K2+D3
- Cheapest Vitamin K2 Supplement: Live Conscious K2+D3
- Best Vitamin K2 Supplement for Bone Health: Nuzena Solar Essence Vitamin D3 K2
- Vegan Certified Vitamin K2 Supplement: Vitamin D3 + K2 Liquid Drops
- Best Vitamin K2 Supplement for Heart Health: Thorne Vitamin K
- Best Value Vitamin K2 Supplement: InnovixLabs Full Spectrum Vitamin K2
- Best Easy-to-Swallow Vitamin K2 Supplement: NOW Supplements, Vitamin K-2
- Certified Organic Natural Vitamin K2 Supplement: USDA Organic Vitamin K2
- Best High-Dose Vitamin K2 Supplement: NatureBell Vitamin K2
- Best Vitamin K2 Supplement for Immune Support: Life Extension Super K
- Best Fast-Absorption Vitamin K2 Supplement: Solgar Vitamin K2
Our Top Vitamin K2 Supplements (April 2024)
1 - Live Conscious K2+D3 (Best Overall and Cheapest Option)
- Vitamin D3 : 125 mcg
- Vitamin K2 MK-7 : 100 mcg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Large dose of vitamin D3 for great immune and bone health benefits
- Provides the more bioavailable type of vitamin K2 to help keep blood vessels healthy
- Available with great bulk order discounts and subscription offers
- Comes In easy-to-swallow soft gel capsules
Cons
- It’s not certified for vegan use due to gelatin content
Out of all the vitamin K2 supplements we tested, this Live Conscious one came at the top, primarily for the dosage and combination with vitamin D3.
During the two months I incorporated Live Conscious K2+D3 into my daily routine, I noticed a significant improvement in my energy levels and overall well-being. I didn't experience any side effects or stomach upset, and my joints felt more flexible and pain-free, a sentiment echoed by the rest of the testing team.
My dietitian also highlighted that the dosage of vitamin K2 and D3 are great for improving bone density and preventing cardiac issues [1].
Quick Facts:
2 - Nuzena Solar Essence Vitamin D3 K2 (Best for Bone Health)
- Vitamin D : 5,000IU
- Vitamin K2 Mk-7 : 100 mcg
- Calcium : 210 mg
- Black Pepper Extract : 5 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Includes vitamin D3 for added immune and bone health
- Added black pepper extract helps with speeding up the absorption
- Available with great subscription discounts for regular intake
Cons
- No bulk order offers are currently available
Nuzena is a well-known brand in the dietary supplements space, and the company has put together a great mix of vitamins and minerals. What I liked about this product is that it also combines vitamin K and D for improved heart health [2].
And for healthy bones, calcium is added into the formula of the vitamin K2 supplement to have all the ingredients to support maintaining optimum bone growth.
Having taken this product for over a month now, I can also say that there don’t seem to be any side effects like stomach upset.
Quick Facts:
3 - Vitamin D3 + K2 Liquid Drops (Vegan Certified)
- Vitamin D3 : 125 mcg
- Vitamin K2 MK-7 : 200 mcg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comes in a convenient liquid form that you can mix in with a morning smoothie
- Provides more than the daily need for vitamin K2 and D3
- Vegan certified option and non-gmo
Cons
- Measuring an exact dose can be a bit tricky with the dripper
This is the first liquid vitamin K2 supplement that we encountered, and based on the research from my dietitian, it provides a great source of both vitamin K2 and D3.
Both of these are included in more than the daily need to ensure you gain as many benefits as possible.
For several weeks, I added a drop of this liquid supplement to my morning green smoothies. I was skeptical at first, but the ease of mixing and the rapid absorption left me impressed. My energy levels were consistently high, and my mood improved, making my days more productive and enjoyable.
Quick Facts:
4 - Thorne Vitamin K (Best for Heart Health)
- Vitamin K2 MK-4 : 5 mg
- Vitamin K2 MK-7 : 90 mcg
- Vitamin K1 : 1 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Combines a mix of vitamin K2 and K1 with both forms of K2 included
- Great dosage to improve your heart health consistently
- Small capsules size makes it easy for daily vitamin K supplementation
Cons
- The vitamin K2 MK-7 dosage could be a good bit higher
Based on our research and testing, Thorne is one of the best vitamin K2 supplement products available because it has a great balance of the two forms of K2 plus some added K1.
That combination seems to be ideal for bone health and improved cardiovascular health [3].
The overall dosage also seems to be in line with recommendations from dietitians, and I like that the capsules are small and easy to swallow. But keep in mind that other products offer a stronger dose at a better price.
Quick Facts:
5 - InnovixLabs Full Spectrum Vitamin K2 (Best Value)
- Vitamin K2 MK-4 : 500 mcg
- Vitamin K2 MK-7 : 100 mcg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Delivers both vitamin K forms as MK-4 and MK-7
- Comes in a large bottle of 90 capsules to keep you going for months
- It’s one of the more affordable natural vitamin supplements
Cons
- A larger dose of vitamin K MK-7 would make this a better supplement
This is one of the simplest vitamin K2 supplement products in that it really only contains the two forms of vitamin K.
My dietitian highlighted that the advantage of this is that it makes stacking with other vitamins for a truly custom stack a lot easier.
I was part of the team that tested InnovixLabs Full Spectrum for a month. Personally, I felt a noticeable uplift in my mood and energy levels. My sleep quality improved, and waking up tired became a thing of the past. It was a seamless experience with no side effects.
I would just like to see a stronger dose of vitamin K2 MK-7, which studies suggest is more bioavailable [4].
Quick Facts:
6 - NOW Supplements, Vitamin K-2 (Best Easy-to-Swallow)
- Vitamin K2 MK-4 : 100 mcg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Focuses only on delivering vitamin K2, making it easier to stack
- Comes in large bottles of 250 capsules to keep you going for months
- The capsules are conveniently small, making them easy to swallow
Cons
- It’s based on vitamin K2 MK-4 with a relatively low dose
This is another one of the vitamin K2 supplements that are ideal for people trying to stack it with other vitamins to come up with a tailored stack. I’ve used to take a precise amount of K2, which is a benefit of the lower dose per capsule.
But keep in mind that most people will likely need to take two capsules a day to get an ideal amount of vitamin K.
Quick Facts:
7 - USDA Organic Vitamin K2 (Certified Organic Natural)
- Vitamin K2 MK-7 : 100 mcg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comes in liquid form that allows for easy adjustment to the dosage
- Contains a small amount of MCT oil for added brain power
- Certified organic natural vitamin K supplement
Cons
- Some added vitamin D3 would be great of a supplement at this price
This is the first vitamin K2 supplement that we found that has a certified organic label.
As someone who prioritizes organic intake, discovering this USDA certified Vitamin K2 was a game-changer for me. Each dose brought a sense of vitality, and the added MCT oil noticeably boosted my cognitive functions [5].
“MCTs can delay brain aging by promoting the repair of brain cell damage, especially when combined with a high-fat diet.”
- Patrick Alban, DC at bebrainfit.com
And if you want to take a precise dosage of vitamin K2, then this liquid option will make that a lot easier to achieve.
Quick Facts:
8 - NatureBell Vitamin K2 (Best High-Dose)
- Vitamin K2 MK-4 : 50 mcg
- Vitamin K2 MK-7 : 150 mcg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Focuses on delivering only vitamin K2 to make stacking easier
- Comes with a good dose of vitamin K2 MK-7 for faster absorption
- Available in large bottles that will last for over six months
Cons
- These are not the smallest capsules to swallow
NatureBell is a supplement company that you’ll find in many health food and supplement stores, and this vitamin K2 supplement is designed to give a good dose of the two types of K2.
As a result, you’ll be able to easily add this to your personally tailored stack with a dosage that is close enough to what most dietitians recommend.
I also like that you can order large bottles of it to keep you going for over six months without having to worry about stocking up again.
Quick Facts:
9 - Life Extension Super K (Best for Immune Support)
- Vitamin K1 : 1,500 mcg
- Vitamin K2 MK-4 : 1,000 mcg
- Vitamin K2 MK-7 : 100 mcg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comes with both vitamin K2 and K1
- Higher dose of MK-4 is great for getting a boost if you’re deficient in vitamin K2
- The softgels are easier to swallow than typical hard capsules
Cons
- It’s quite an expensive product, even for the higher dosage
This Life Extension Vitamin K2 is another good option for people who want to see a combination of both K2 and K1.
With a good dose of both, this can also be the ideal choice if you want to avoid taking multiple capsules of vitamin K every day.
Our team also highlighted during testing that the softgel capsules are easier to swallow than most other harder capsules. They don’t tend to get stuck or feel sore while swallowing.
Quick Facts:
10 - Solgar Vitamin K2 (Best Fast-Absorption)
- Vitamin K2 MK-7 : 100 mcg
- Calcium : 115 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Includes some calcium to help with bone repair and density
- The capsules are smaller than average, making them easy to swallow
- Provides vitamin K MK-7 for easier absorption and lasting effects
Cons
- The amount of calcium is very low, so you’ll need to get a full dose somewhere else
The final one of our best vitamin K2 supplement recommendations comes from one of the leading brands in the vitamin space. Solgar has created this product.
Solgar Vitamin K2 became a staple in my daily supplement intake. Each capsule not only offered a potent dose of Vitamin K2 but also contributed to my enhanced well-being. My energy was sustained throughout the day, and my focus was sharper, underscoring the long-lasting effects of this supplement.
And while it is a vitamin K and calcium combination, I think the company could improve by increasing the amount of calcium.
Quick Facts:
How We Tested the Best Vitamin K2 Supplements
Price
We meticulously analyzed the pricing of each Vitamin K2 supplement to ensure that our readers receive great value for their money. The products were evaluated based on their cost per serving, taking into account the quality and potency of the ingredients included.
Dosage
The effectiveness of a supplement is highly dependent on its dosage. We ensured that all the Vitamin K2 supplements on our list contain ingredients that are dosed sufficiently backed by scientific research. Products with undisclosed or insufficient dosages were not included.
Ingredients
We prioritized supplements with high-quality, name-brand ingredients that are known for their effectiveness and safety. Our selection includes products that contain patented versions of ingredients, offering extra confidence to users regarding their quality and efficacy.
Consultation with Experts
Before finalizing our list, we consulted with health and nutrition experts to gain insights into the safety, effectiveness, and overall quality of the supplements. This step ensured that our selections were not only backed by scientific research but also vetted by professionals in the field.
User Feedback
We also considered the feedback and reviews from actual users of the Vitamin K2 supplements. This real-world insight helped us understand the effectiveness, benefits, and potential side effects of the products from a user’s perspective.
What to Consider Before Choosing a Vitamin K Supplement?
Here are a few important things to consider before choosing a Vitamin K supplement.
Dosage
When it comes to the dosage, you need to pay attention to each form of vitamin K2, i.e., MK-4 and MK-7. For people with significant vitamin K deficiency, it’s best to aim for 100 mcg of MK-7 and over MK-4.
Some people say you should avoid taking too much K2 due to blood clotting risks. However, it’s important to note that it doesn’t cause blood clotting but is rather an important factor in allowing the clotting process to happen when needed [6].
Related Articles:
Form Of Vitamin K2
There are two types of K2, and dietitians generally advise getting MK-7 as it’s the most bioavailable form of vitamin K. It also plays a key role in calcium metabolism, and the majority of supplements we tested focused on this form [7].
Like other fat-soluble vitamins, it’s best not to take on an empty stomach and rather take it with some fat-rich foods like dairy products.
Who Should Take Vitamin K2 Supplements?
Anyone who doesn’t regularly eat fermented food should consider taking vitamin K supplements. There is also scientific evidence that people can reduce liver cancer recurrence with a regular K2 intake [8].
And if you want to prevent natural bone deterioration and cardiac issues, then this is also a great way to take simple steps with big results.
“Vitamin K2 appears to protect the bones more than Vitamin K1, but too little of either is bad for the bones. Studies have shown that poor Vitamin K intake is linked to low bone mass, osteoporosis and fracture risk.”
- Mark Richens, Writer at americanbonehealth.org
The Role of Vitamin K2 in Cognitive Health
Vitamin K2, primarily known for its role in bone and cardiovascular health, is now gaining attention for its potential benefits in supporting cognitive health and brain function.
Emerging research suggests that K2 may play a crucial role in preserving memory, focus, and cognitive abilities.
This vitamin is essential for activating proteins that regulate calcium in the brain, potentially protecting against neurodegenerative diseases.
Recent studies have linked Vitamin K2 intake to improved cognitive performance and a reduced risk of cognitive decline [9].
Vitamin K2 in Plant-Based Diets
Vitamin K2 is primarily found in animal-based sources like dairy, meat, and fermented foods, posing challenges for individuals following a plant-based diet.
However, vegans and vegetarians can still obtain Vitamin K2 from natto, a fermented soybean product, as it's one of the few plant sources rich in this vitamin.
Other options include fermented plant-based foods like sauerkraut and certain plant-derived oils. Additionally, some vegan K2 supplements, usually sourced from natto, are available.
FAQs
What Kind Of Vitamin K2 Is Best?
The best kind of Vitamin K2 is MK-7 because it’s classed as being more bioavailable. That means you need less of it in a vitamin K2 supplement, and you’ll find it in fermented foods.
Is It Good To Take Vitamin K2 Every Day?
Yes, it’s good to take vitamin K2 every day. This vitamin plays a critical role in delivering calcium to bones by helping enzymes convert matrix GLA protein and inhibit calcification in arteries.
Our Verdict on The Best Vitamin K2 Supplement
After diving deep into the world of Vitamin K2 supplements and personally testing a variety of them, I've reached a verdict that I'm excited to share. My journey with Live Conscious K2+D3 has been a game-changer.
I've felt a surge in my energy levels and an overall sense of well-being that I hadn't experienced before. It's not just me; the rest of the testing team reported similar improvements, and my dietitian can't stop raving about the benefits for bone density and heart health.
I've also been impressed with the USDA Organic Vitamin K2 for its organic certification and the cognitive boost from the MCT oil. It's not every day you find a supplement that makes you feel this good.
Our #1 Recommendation
Live Conscious K2+D3 (Best Overall and Cheapest Option)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Large dose of vitamin D3 for great immune and bone health benefits
- Provides the more bioavailable type of vitamin K2 to help keep blood vessels healthy
- Available with great bulk order discounts and subscription offers
- Comes In easy-to-swallow soft gel capsules
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of April
- It’s not certified for vegan use due to gelatin content
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