Best Time Of Day To Take Vitamin K2
Vitamin K2 is a lesser-known vitamin that plays a vital role in keeping our body healthy. It is essential for blood clotting and bone health, and it also helps to prevent heart disease and cancer. However, many people do not know when is the best time of day to take vitamin K2. In this article, we will discuss the best time of day to take vitamin K2 and why it is important.
What Is Vitamin K2?
Vitamin K2 is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for many bodily functions. It is found in several foods, including cheese, egg yolks, and meat. Vitamin K2 is also produced by bacteria in the gut, but the amount produced is not enough to meet the body's needs.
There are two types of vitamin K: vitamin K1 and vitamin K2. Vitamin K1 is found in green leafy vegetables and plays a crucial role in blood clotting. Vitamin K2, on the other hand, is found in animal products and fermented foods and is essential for bone and heart health.
When Is The Best Time Of Day To Take Vitamin K2?
The best time of day to take vitamin K2 is with a meal that contains fat. Vitamin K2 is a fat-soluble vitamin, which means it is better absorbed when consumed with fat. Taking vitamin K2 with a meal that contains fat also helps to prevent any gastrointestinal discomfort.
It is also best to take vitamin K2 at the same time every day. This helps to ensure a consistent level of vitamin K2 in the body, which is important for its many functions.
How Much Vitamin K2 Should You Take?
The recommended daily intake of vitamin K2 varies depending on age and gender. The National Institutes of Health recommends the following daily intake:
- Adults: 120 mcg
- Pregnant women: 90-100 mcg
- Breastfeeding women: 90-100 mcg
It is important not to exceed the recommended daily intake of vitamin K2 as it can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Benefits Of Vitamin K2
Vitamin K2 plays a vital role in keeping our body healthy. Some of the benefits of vitamin K2 include:
- Improves bone health: Vitamin K2 helps to activate osteocalcin, a protein that is essential for bone health. It also helps to prevent bone loss and fractures.
- Reduces the risk of heart disease: Vitamin K2 helps to prevent the buildup of calcium in the arteries, which can lead to heart disease.
- Prevents cancer: Vitamin K2 helps to prevent the growth of cancer cells and promotes cancer cell death.
- Improves dental health: Vitamin K2 helps to prevent tooth decay and promotes healthy teeth and gums.
Food Sources Of Vitamin K2
Vitamin K2 is found in several foods, including:
- Meat: Beef liver, chicken, and pork
- Dairy: Cheese, butter, and egg yolks
- Fermented foods: Sauerkraut, natto, and miso
- Vegetables: Spinach, kale, and broccoli
Conclusion
Vitamin K2 is essential for our overall health and well-being. It is important to take vitamin K2 with a meal that contains fat and at the same time every day to ensure a consistent level in the body. It is also important not to exceed the recommended daily intake of vitamin K2. By incorporating vitamin K2-rich foods into our diet, we can reap the many benefits of this essential vitamin.