1. Vitamin K2's core functions:

• Bone Health: Activates osteocalcin to promote calcium deposition in bones, enhancing bone density and reducing fracture risk.

• Cardiovascular Protection: Inhibits vascular calcification by activating matrix Gla protein (MGP), preventing arteriosclerosis.

• Other Effects: May improve insulin sensitivity and participate in sphingolipid metabolism to protect brain function.

2. Mechanism:
• Carboxylation Reaction: Acts as a cofactor for γ-glutamyl carboxylase, converting glutamic acid residues in osteocalcin to γ-carboxyglutamic acid, enabling calcium binding.

• Bone Metabolism Regulation: Balances osteoblast and osteoclast activity to maintain dynamic bone remodeling.

• Vascular Protection: Activates MGP to prevent abnormal calcium deposition in blood vessel walls.

3. Target Groups
The following individuals may require additional vitamin K2 supplementation:

• Elderly: Those over 50 or with poor gastrointestinal function due to reduced absorption capacity.

• Osteoporosis patients: To aid calcium deposition and enhance bone strength.

• Individuals at risk of vascular diseases: To reduce vascular calcification and prevent arteriosclerosis.

• Those with imbalanced diets: Such as those who rarely consume K2-rich foods like natto or cheese.

• Patients with specific conditions: Such as long-term antibiotic users, or those with liver disease or inflammatory bowel disease.