Unveiling the Power of Vitamin K2 for Horses: Understanding MK-4 and MK-7

Vitamin K2, often overshadowed by its more popular counterparts like vitamin C and vitamin D, is gaining recognition for its vital role in equine health. While vitamin K1 is well-known for its involvement in blood clotting, vitamin K2, specifically MK-4 and MK-7, offers a myriad of benefits for horses. In this blog post, we'll explore the significance of vitamin K2, its various forms, and the potential advantages it holds for equine well-being.

The Basics of Vitamin K2: Vitamin K2 belongs to the family of fat-soluble vitamins and is crucial for proper blood clotting, bone health, and cardiovascular function. Unlike vitamin K1, which is primarily involved in blood clotting, vitamin K2 plays a vital role in regulating calcium metabolism within the body.

Forms of Vitamin K2: MK-4 vs. MK-7 There are two main forms of vitamin K2 that are commonly discussed concerning equine nutrition: MK-4 and MK-7.

1. MK-4 (Menatetrenone):

• Derived from animal sources and certain fermented foods.

• Has a shorter half-life in the body compared to MK-7.

• Known for its role in activating osteocalcin, a protein essential for bone health.

• Exhibits benefits in supporting cardiovascular health.

1. MK-7 (Menaquinone-7):

• Found in fermented foods and produced by bacteria in the gut.

• Has a longer half-life, leading to more sustained benefits.

• Known for promoting arterial flexibility and reducing arterial calcification.

• Supports bone health by activating osteocalcin.

• 
  

Benefits of Vitamin K2 for Horses:

1. Bone Health: Vitamin K2 is instrumental in the activation of osteocalcin, a protein responsible for binding calcium to the bone matrix. Adequate vitamin K2 levels contribute to improved bone density and strength in horses, reducing the risk of fractures

2. Cardiovascular Health: MK-7, in particular, has been linked to cardiovascular health benefits. It helps prevent calcium from accumulating in the arteries, promoting arterial flexibility and reducing the risk of calcification. This is crucial for maintaining optimal blood flow and preventing cardiovascular issues in horses.

3. Joint and Cartilage Support: Vitamin K2 may play a role in supporting joint health by contributing to the regulation of calcium within the cartilage matrix. This can be beneficial for horses prone to joint issues.

Choosing the Right Form: When selecting a vitamin K2 supplement for horses, considering the specific benefits of MK-4 and MK-7 is crucial. Depending on the horse's individual needs and potential deficiencies, a combination of both forms may be appropriate. It's essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the most suitable form and dosage for your horse.

Conclusion: In the world of equine nutrition, vitamin K2 is emerging as a key player in promoting bone health, cardiovascular function, and overall well-being. Understanding the distinctions between MK-4 and MK-7 allows horse owners to make informed decisions when incorporating vitamin K2 into their horses' diets. As always, consulting with a veterinarian is essential to tailor supplementation to the unique needs of each horse, ensuring they receive the maximum benefits from this often overlooked vitamin.