Vitamin K2 MK-7 vs MK-4: What the Label Is Telling You

“Vitamin K” is a family of compounds rather than a single nutrient, so labels can look confusing. Our Vitamin K2 lists 180mcg of vitamin K2 as menaquinone-7 (MK-7) per capsule. Here is what that means.

Vitamin K1 and K2

• Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) is the form found mainly in leafy green vegetables.
• Vitamin K2 (menaquinones) is a group of related compounds, found in some fermented foods and animal foods.

MK-4 and MK-7

Menaquinones are named by the length of their side chain, from MK-4 up to MK-13. The two you will see most on supplement labels are:

MK-7 has a longer side chain and stays in the body longer than MK-4, which is why MK-7 products are typically taken once a day.

Micrograms, not milligrams

Vitamin K is measured in micrograms (mcg or µg). 180mcg is 0.18mg. Always check the unit before comparing two labels.

Label at a glance

• Serving size: 1 capsule
• Servings per bottle: 60
• Directions: adults take 1 capsule daily with water, preferably with a meal, or as directed by your healthcare professional

Important if you take blood thinners

Vitamin K can interact with anticoagulant medicines such as warfarin. If you take any blood-thinning medication, speak with your doctor before taking a vitamin K product.

See the full label

The complete supplement panel, directions and warnings are on the product page: Elevate Nutra Vitamin K2 MK-7 180mcg.

Questions about a product or its label? Email us at info@elevatenutra.com.au.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Supplements should not replace a balanced diet. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional. This article is general information only and is not medical advice.