Vitamin K plays a pivotal role in your health, often flying under the radar compared to other vitamins like D or C. Yet, this fat-soluble vitamin is essential for bone health, cardiovascular health, and proper blood clotting. If you’re looking to optimize your health, especially your bone and heart health, a Vitamin K supplement might be just what you need.
But here’s the challenge: with multiple forms of Vitamin K available—K1, K2 (MK-4, MK-7), and even some unique blends—it’s hard to know which one is the best for you. Whether you’re trying to prevent bone loss, improve your cardiovascular health, or just want to ensure you’re meeting your nutritional needs, this guide will help you make an informed choice.
What is Vitamin K and Why Is It Important?
Understanding Vitamin K
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin found in two main forms:
- Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone): Predominantly found in leafy greens and certain vegetable oils. It is primarily involved in blood clotting.
- Vitamin K2 (menaquinone): Found in fermented foods, animal products, and some supplements. It is crucial for bone health and heart health, as it helps direct calcium to bones and teeth while preventing it from accumulating in the arteries.
Expert Insight: “Vitamin K2 is especially important for bone and cardiovascular health because it activates proteins that help regulate calcium, ensuring it ends up in the right places,” says Dr. Jane Harrison, a nutrition expert at the American Heart Association.
Key Benefits of Vitamin K
- Bone Health: Supports bone mineralization and helps prevent osteoporosis.
- Heart Health: Reduces arterial calcification and promotes cardiovascular wellness.
- Blood Clotting: Vital for proper blood clot formation, which helps prevent excessive bleeding.
How to Choose the Best Vitamin K Supplement
When selecting a Vitamin K supplement, consider the following factors:
1. Type of Vitamin K
As mentioned, there are two types of Vitamin K supplements:
- Vitamin K1: If you are primarily interested in blood clotting, Vitamin K1 is the way to go. It’s generally found in plant-based supplements.
- Vitamin K2: For bone and heart health, Vitamin K2 (especially MK-7) is more effective. It stays active in your body longer than K1.
2. Dose
Most adults need 90–120 mcg of Vitamin K per day, but supplementation may be needed if you have deficiencies or specific health goals. Some products deliver much higher doses, so choose one based on your doctor’s recommendation.
3. Additional Ingredients
Look for products that combine Vitamin K with other nutrients that support bone or heart health, such as Vitamin D, magnesium, or calcium. These nutrients work synergistically with Vitamin K for better absorption and effectiveness.
4. Form of Supplement
Vitamin K supplements come in several forms:
- Softgels: Convenient and easy to swallow.
- Liquids: Great for those who have difficulty swallowing pills or need higher doses.
- Tablets: Common in multi-vitamin blends.
7 Best Vitamin K Supplements of 2026 (Ranked & Reviewed)
Here are our top recommendations based on effectiveness, expert recommendations, and user feedback.
| Product | Key Ingredients | Made In | Highlights | Form | Dose |
| 1. Thorne Research Vitamin K2 | Vitamin K2 (MK-7) | USA | High bioavailability, supports bone health | Softgel | 1,000 mcg |
| 2. NOW Vitamin K-2 | Vitamin K2 (MK-7) | USA | Budget-friendly, high-quality, vegan | Softgel | 100 mcg |
| 3. Life Extension Super K | Vitamin K2 (MK-4, MK-7), K1 | USA | Combines K1 and K2 for comprehensive benefits | Softgel | 100 mcg |
| 4. Carlson Labs Vitamin K2 | Vitamin K2 (MK-7) | USA | Non-GMO, supports heart health | Softgel | 1,000 mcg |
| 5. Doctor’s Best Vitamin K2 | Vitamin K2 (MK-7) | USA | High-potency formula with superior absorption | Softgel | 180 mcg |
| 6. Jarrow Formulas MK-7 | Vitamin K2 (MK-7) | USA | Supports cardiovascular and bone health | Softgel | 90 mcg |
| 7. K2 Mk-7 by Sports Research | Vitamin K2 (MK-7) | USA | Vegan, supports bone and joint health | Softgel | 100 mcg |
Detailed Reviews of the Best Vitamin K Supplements
1. Thorne Research Vitamin K2 (MK-7)
Key Ingredients: Vitamin K2 (MK-7)
Made In: USA
Form: Softgel
Dose: 1,000 mcg
Why We Recommend It: Thorne is known for producing high-quality, bioavailable supplements. Their Vitamin K2 (MK-7) is sourced from Natto, a fermented soybean, ensuring superior absorption. It is an excellent choice for those focused on bone health and heart disease prevention.
Tester Feedback: Users report feeling a significant improvement in bone strength and overall health after consistent use. The 1,000 mcg dose is optimal for those seeking long-term benefits.
Notes/Warnings: The 1,000 mcg dose is on the higher end, so it’s essential to monitor intake or consult with a doctor.
2. NOW Vitamin K-2 (MK-7)
Key Ingredients: Vitamin K2 (MK-7)
Made In: USA
Form: Softgel
Dose: 100 mcg
Why We Recommend It: NOW is a well-respected, affordable brand, and their Vitamin K2 (MK-7) offers great value without sacrificing quality. It’s vegan, non-GMO, and well-reviewed by users.
Tester Feedback: Many users appreciate the cost-effectiveness of this product without compromising on the health benefits of Vitamin K2. It supports both bone and heart health effectively.
Notes/Warnings: If you are already taking a Vitamin D supplement, this product pairs well with it.
3. Life Extension Super K
Key Ingredients: Vitamin K2 (MK-4, MK-7), Vitamin K1
Made In: USA
Form: Softgel
Dose: 100 mcg
Why We Recommend It: This product offers a unique combination of Vitamin K1 and both MK-4 and MK-7 forms of Vitamin K2, providing comprehensive support for heart and bone health. It is a high-quality supplement that uses potent, bioavailable forms of Vitamin K.
Tester Feedback: Users report improved bone density and less joint discomfort. It’s a great option for those looking for a more complete Vitamin K supplement.
Notes/Warnings: The mixed form of Vitamin K may not be suitable for everyone, especially if you’re targeting a specific type of Vitamin K.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Vitamin K Supplement for You
When shopping for a Vitamin K supplement, it’s important to consider the following:
- Your Health Goals: Are you looking for bone health, cardiovascular support, or both? Vitamin K2 (MK-7) is the go-to choice for long-term bone health, while Vitamin K1 is more effective for blood clotting.
- Form of Supplement: Softgels are the most common form, but liquid or tablet options are available depending on your preferences.
- Quality and Purity: Opt for third-party tested supplements from reputable brands to ensure you’re getting a high-quality product.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overlooking the Type of Vitamin K: Make sure you choose the right form (K1 vs. K2) based on your health needs.
- Taking Too Much: While Vitamin K is generally safe, too much can lead to issues with blood clotting. Stick to the recommended dosage unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is Vitamin K safe to take daily?
A1: Yes, Vitamin K is generally safe for daily use, especially in the recommended doses. However, if you are on blood-thinning medication, consult your doctor before starting supplementation.
Q2: Can Vitamin K help with osteoporosis?
A2: Yes, Vitamin K2, particularly MK-7, is known to support bone health by activating osteocalcin, a protein that helps bind calcium to bones.
Q3: How does Vitamin K2 differ from Vitamin K1?
A3: Vitamin K1 is primarily involved in blood clotting, whereas Vitamin K2 plays a crucial role in bone mineralization and cardiovascular health by directing calcium to bones and teeth