The Greatest Overlooked Nutrient in Medicine - Dr. Eric Berg DC
Vitamin K2 often takes a backseat to other vitamins, yet it is vital for our overall health. Dr. Eric Berg DC highlights its significance in his presentation, pointing out how this "overlooked nutrient" can help prevent various major health issues. In this review, we will delve into Dr. Berg’s insights on vitamin K2, examining its benefits, sources, and its essential role in regulating calcium within the body.
Vitamin K2: The Unsung Hero of Health
Vitamin K2 is crucial for avoiding health problems associated with improper calcium placement. While calcium is important for strong bones, its buildup in soft tissues such as arteries and joints can pose serious health threats. Vitamin K2 serves as a "calcium traffic controller," ensuring that calcium moves from the bloodstream to the bones and teeth, thus preventing it from accumulating in inappropriate areas.
The Role of Vitamin K2 in Calcium Management
A key function of vitamin K2 is to manage calcium distribution. Dr. Berg explains that K2 directs calcium from the bloodstream to the bones, where it binds securely to bone tissue and teeth. Without sufficient K2, calcium can end up in soft tissues, leading to issues like arthritis, artery calcification, and osteoporosis. This vital nutrient helps keep calcium in its proper place, supporting both cardiovascular and skeletal health.
Food Sources of Vitamin K2
Dr. Berg highlights that vitamin K2 is mainly acquired through food sources and, to a lesser degree, by converting vitamin K1 in the body. Unfortunately, many of the richest sources of K2—such as natto (fermented soybeans), liver, and eel—are not commonly included in Western diets. Here’s a closer look at foods that are high in K2:
Natto: This Japanese delicacy is the most abundant source of vitamin K2 and is associated with cardiovascular benefits.
Organ Meats: Goose liver, chicken liver, and beef liver also provide significant amounts of K2, though they are often less favored due to taste preferences.
Other Sources: Eel, grass-fed butter, cheese, and fermented vegetables (like sauerkraut) contain moderate levels of K2.
Interestingly, foods rich in K2 are often high in fat, which contradicts the low-fat dietary guidelines that are frequently recommended. This has led to a widespread deficiency in K2, as many people avoid these foods in favor of a “healthier” low-fat diet.
Factors Affecting Vitamin K2 Absorption
Vitamin K2 is a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning it needs bile for proper absorption. Individuals with liver problems, those without a gallbladder, or those following a low-fat diet may find it difficult to absorb K2 effectively. Moreover, the body’s ability to convert K1 to K2 relies on specific gut bacteria, particularly Bacillus subtilis. Unfortunately, the common use of antibiotics, steroids, and antacids can harm these beneficial microbes, leading to reduced K2 production in the body. Only about 30% of people have adequate levels of B. subtilis in their gut, making dietary sources of K2 even more essential.
The Role of Vitamin K2 in Relation to Vitamin D and Magnesium
For optimal health, vitamin K2 is most effective when combined with vitamin D and magnesium. Dr. Berg points out that vitamin D enhances calcium absorption, while K2 ensures that calcium is directed to the bones. Without adequate K2, the extra calcium absorbed through vitamin D could accumulate in soft tissues, which may lead to health issues. Magnesium also plays a crucial role, supporting K2 in managing calcium and preventing its deposition in inappropriate areas.
Recommended Dosage: Balancing Vitamin D and K2
To maximize the benefits of vitamin K2, Dr. Berg recommends opting for the MK-7 form instead of MK-4, as MK-7 is more natural and effective at lower doses. He advises a dosage of about 100 micrograms of K2 for every 10,000 IU of vitamin D3. This combination offers a well-rounded strategy for maintaining calcium balance and promoting bone health.
Vitamin K2 Deficiency: A Hidden Threat to Health
A lack of vitamin K2 can result in numerous health issues, ranging from osteoporosis to cardiovascular problems. Many individuals are unaware of their deficiency due to common misconceptions about fatty foods and the impact of modern diets and lifestyles on gut bacteria. This deficiency creates a harmful cycle, causing calcium to build up in soft tissues instead of bones, which increases the likelihood of joint pain, kidney stones, and arterial blockages.
Conclusion: Why Vitamin K2 Deserves More Attention
Dr. Berg emphasizes the significance of vitamin K2 as an essential nutrient that may help prevent various chronic diseases. By shedding light on the importance of K2 and its dietary sources, he promotes a more comprehensive approach to health. Considering its crucial role in managing calcium and supporting bone health, adding vitamin K2-rich foods like natto, liver, and fermented items to our diets can be a significant step toward enhancing long-term wellness. This often-overlooked nutrient truly merits a more central role in discussions about optimal health and wellness.