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Vitamins & minerals · FROM DR. PURSER’S TEACHING

MK-4 & MK-7

Are forms of vitamin K2, a family involved in activation of vitamin K-dependent proteins.

Based on teaching by Dan Purser, MD. How we prepare these guides

Updated Sep 23, 2026 · Educational reference

THE TEACHING CONNECTION

Are forms of vitamin K2, a family involved in activation of vitamin K-dependent proteins.

What it does

Are forms of vitamin K2, a family involved in activation of vitamin K-dependent proteins.

Possible deficiency symptoms

There is no separate symptom checklist that diagnoses an MK-4 or MK-7 deficiency.

How supplementation is approached

MK-4 and MK-7 are forms of vitamin K2. Dr. Purser discusses vitamin K with bone and vitamin D support, but the exact form and existing combined products matter. Anticoagulant use must be reviewed before adding or changing vitamin K.

Food sources

Some cheeses and fermented foods; natto is a source of MK-7.

Supplement forms

Menaquinone-4 (MK-4) and menaquinone-7 (MK-7), often paired with vitamin D. Verify the individual amounts.

What to track and reassess

If taking warfarin, coordinate vitamin K intake with the anticoagulation team and continue their monitoring plan. Do not use a genetic result to decide that an anticoagulant is ineffective.

From starting support to follow-up

If you and your clinician start a CMA replenishment plan, you may add one new product at a time, often waiting 3–7 days to see how you feel. A check-in is usually planned near ten weeks during an approximately 100-day period. Follow your written plan for amounts and timing. At follow-up, you may continue, change, or stop each item. This timetable does not automatically end longer-term support.

Names you may see

MK-4 & MK-7