The Life-Saving Vitamin You’re NOT Taking
Dear Living Well Daily Reader,
When you buy a multivitamin, what are the first vitamins you look for?
Probably B vitamins for your energy levels and brain… maybe vitamin D for your bones… or vitamin C for your immune system.
But there’s one vitamin you probably never think about.
It’s like the Rodney Dangerfield of vitamins – it gets no respect.
But if you’re serious about preventing diabetes, heart disease, dementia… and even cancer… you need to add it to your daily routine.
Starting today.
The way vitamin K got its name is a very curious thing.
Vitamin K is named for the German word for coagulation – or the clotting of blood.
And that is what vitamin K had long been used for: to help our blood clot.
But, like many things in the science of health, we had no idea how important vitamin K is to our overall health.
Like other fat-soluble vitamins, there is more than one type of vitamin K – vitamin K1 and vitamin K2.
Vitamin K2 is the most healthful for our bodies. Studies out of Japan show the consumption of natto – a naturally fermented soy and a good source of Vitamin K2 – helps reduce rates of many chronic conditions
Vitamin K2 is now known to activate over 17 proteins in our bodies:
- A protein called osteocalcin – which helps to build bone.
- A protein called Matrix GLA protein (MGP) that helps keep arteries healthy by keeping calcium from sticking to the walls.
- A number of protein clotting factors involved in coagulation (Factors II, VII, IX, X).
- A number of protein anti-coagulants (proteins C, S and Z).
Studies on vitamin K are ongoing and have found that taking enough Vitamin K is essential to help prevent:
- Osteoporosis
- Diabetes
- Dementia
- Cancer
- Heart disease
It seems vitamin K is more important than we could have ever imagined.
Good food sources of vitamin K include: natto, green leafy vegetables, fish, liver, meat, and eggs.
I generally suggest getting 90 mcg of vitamin K a day – along with a balanced diet. If you don’t get enough, then make sure you supplement.
Health and Happiness,
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
P.S. If you are on anticoagulants (blood thinners) then work with your doctor to add vitamin K to your diet.
Ed. Note: Please send your feedback: feedback@livingwelldaily.com – and click here to like us on Facebook.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
The Sunshine Vitamin's Surprising Heart Benefits Revealed
Most folks know that vitamin D is vital for bone health. And if you’re a regular Living Well Daily reader, you also know how critical it is for overall health. But now, incredibly, a new study has revealed something that could change how we think about the “sunshine vitamin” forever. Researchers uncovered evidence that this...
Discover How Gut Bugs Shape Your Brain Health
We’ve all experienced an intuitive “gut feeling” before. But what if I told you your gut is doing FAR more than just sending you hunches? A new study has uncovered a fascinating link between the bacteria in your digestive system and your brain health. It might just change everything we thought we knew about preventing...
Build a Stronger Immune System at Any Age
As we age our immune systems need a little extra TLC to keep us healthy and strong. But don’t worry, boosting your immunity doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. In fact, some of the best immune-boosting strategies are simple habits you can incorporate into your daily routine. So, let’s dive into some tried-and-true tips...
Natural Solutions to Snoring
Regardless of whether you’re the snorer or the unfortunate bedmate, snoring is a source of stress for countless couples. The endless, rhythmic, sawing sounds can disrupt the rest of even the deepest sleepers. But before you resort to earplugs or separate bedrooms, let’s explore some natural ways to tackle snoring. Snoring isn’t just annoying. It...
Shedding New Light on Depression with this “Sunlight” Hack
You’ve likely heard of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This form of the blues hits as the leaves fall and the days grow shorter. Well, new research reveals that the same therapy that helps many folks battling SAD feel better could be a ray of hope for those fighting other types of depression, too. Here’s what...
Mailbag: Reverse Atherosclerosis Naturally? Science Says Yes—Here's How
“What actually reverses heart clogging?” -Heartfelt Hi Heartfelt, I have good news. We used to think reversing arterial plaque buildup or “heart clogging” was impossible, but now we know better. When my own patients ask me about atherosclerosis (the medical term for clogged arteries), I explain that—while complete reversal can be challenging—research confirms that specific...
Study Pinpoints Foods That Send Disease Risk Soaring
We’ve all heard that old saying, “You are what you eat.” Well, it’s been around for so long because it’s true. And it turns out your dinner plate could secretly stoke the fires of disease in your body. A new study revealed a shocking truth about the American diet. This time it’s not about calories...
Feast Without Fear of Packing on the Pounds
With all the festive feasts and indulgent treats this holiday season, many of us are already bracing for the inevitable battle of the bulge. But is holiday weight gain really as unavoidable as we think? Let’s unwrap the truth behind this seasonal struggle (pun intended). And I’ll share some simple strategies to keep those extra...
PLAY Your Way to Better Brain Health!?
Are you convinced video games are just for kids? Well, think again! A remarkable new study suggests that playing the RIGHT kinds of games could help turn back the clock on your brain, improving cognitive performance, memory, and more. The best part? You probably already have everything you need to get started—right in your pocket…...
'Tis the Season for A Tumultuous Tummy?
The holiday season is in full swing! And you know what that means… lots of festive food, drinks, and—indigestion. But you don’t have to let a bubbly gut crash YOUR Christmas party. I’ll share some simple hacks to help you keep the festivities going… The holidays are brimming with celebrations and plenty of rich food...