TOP 5 FOOD SOURCES OF VITAMIN K2

Vitamin K2 is uncommon form of vitamin K which is recently identified by FDA. Earlier scientist believed that it is not necessary to take vitamin K2 as body is capable of producing its own vitamin K2. But recently, it has been studied that body cannot produce enough amount of vitamin K2 and it is important to furnish the body with vitamin K2 through dietary sources. Vitamin K2 helps in the absorption of calcium by removing the calcium deposit from the arteries.

Thus, it indirectly minimizes the risk of heart diseases as excessive deposit of calcium in the arteries give rise to heart disease. It is also a good antioxidant that helps to maintain the overall health of the body. Though vitamin K2 is found in vegetarian sources, but high concentration of this vitamin is mainly found in fermented and non-vegetarian foods. Let’s have a glance on the food sources of vitamin K2.

1.    Natto

Natto is one of the best sources of vitamin K2 that contains maximum amount of vitamin K2. It is made from fermented soyabean which forms a sticky web-like structure. It is a foul smelling food served generally in Japanese breakfast. This traditional Japanese food contains viatamin K2 in three different forms. It is also a good source of antioxidant and protein.

2.    Dairy Products

Dairy products mainly cheese contains vitamin K2. But all type of cheese is not a rich source of vitamin K2 except hard cheese like cheddar. Other cheese like blue or feta contains vitamin K2 but in very less quantity. Basically, fermented, hard and aged cheeses are good sources of vitamin K2. Dairy products like curd cheese, butter and milk also serves as a source of vitamin K2.

3.    Meat And Egg

Vitamin K2 is found in meat of chicken and beef. Liver of chicken and beef is especially a good source of vitamin K2. Salami, organ meats and liver are also rich in vitamin K2. As vitamin K2 is mostly synthesize in animal tissue so meat are considered as an excellent source of vitamin K2. Egg is also a wonderful source of vitamin K2. But especially egg yolk contains the maximum amount of vitamin K2.

4.    Vegetables

Green vegetables are said to be loaded with minerals and vitamins. So it definitely contains vitamin K2 as well. Vegetables that contain vitamin K2 are kale, Brussels sprouts, spinach, green beans, asparagus, broccoli, green peas and carrots.

5.    Other Foods

Basically fermented and sour foods have been found to have high quantity of vitamin K2 such as sauerkraut and kefir. Other foods that contain vitamin K2 and are used in your regular meals are chili, cabbage, and spring onion. Herbs and spices used to garnish our daily meal also contain some amount of vitamin K2.

Fish like tuna, mackerel, sardines, caviar are also considered as a good source of vitamin K2. Although it is absolutely safe to indulge in eating foods rich in vitamin as these are all natural sources and reaction are rare. But be cautious and do not overindulge in foods rich in K2 if you are taking medicines to prevent blood clotting like Warfarin. Warfarin may react with vitamin K2 in the blood.

Source: Vitaminestore