Most people are familiar with vitamin K1, also known as phylloquinones, and the important role they play in blood clotting. On the other hand, there’s another form of vitamin K called vitamin K2, or the menaquinones, which have a different role – they may help to lower the risk of cancer.

Reduce Your Cancer Risk with Vitamin K?

According to the results of a new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, people can lower cancer risk by almost thirty percent by eating foods high in vitamin K2. Researchers followed over 24,000 middle-aged, healthy people for ten years. They found that those with the highest intake of natural vitamin K2 had a risk of cancer that was twenty-eight percent lower than those who got little vitamin K2. This is good news for anyone looking for natural ways to lower cancer risk.

Vitamin K2 Sources: What are the Best Natural Vitamin K2 Sources?

You won’t find vitamin K2 in the same foods that are high in vitamin K1. Vitamin K1 is primarily found in green, leafy vegetables and broccoli, while the best vitamin K2 sources are meats and fermented cheese products. (hard cheese is a better source than soft cheese).

One of the very best sources of vitamin K2 is natto, a fermented soybean dish enjoyed by the Japanese. Because it’s fermented taste and slimy texture doesn’t please the palate of most Americans, they’re more likely get their K2 from other sources such as fermented cheese, egg yolks, chicken, and beef.

The reason fermented foods are such a good source of natural vitamin K2 is because the bacteria used in the fermentation process also produce K2. Humans are able to convert some of the vitamin K1 in their gut to vitamin K2, although most studies show this amount isn’t enough to maintain adequate levels.

Vitamin K2 May Do More than Lower Cancer Risk

Natural vitamin K2 may do more than just reduce cancer risk; it may be good for heart and bone health too. Some studies show it reduces calcification of the coronary arteries – a forerunner to a heart attack. It also plays an important role in bone health. In Japan where natto is an integral part of the diet, the Japanese have higher blood levels of vitamin K2 and a lower risk of osteoporosis.

Getting More Natural Vitamin K2 to Lower Cancer Risk

Natto is really the ideal source of vitamin K2 since it’s lower in fat and calories than fermented cheese and most meat sources. Another option is miso. Most people have had a bowl of miso soup at a Japanese restaurant without realizing they were getting natural vitamin K2. How about adding a bowl of miso soup to your daily diet? It’s one of the best vitamin K2 sources – and may help to lower your cancer risk while keeping your heart and bones healthy.