What is the Difference Between Vitamin K1 K2 and K3?

Vitamin K is a family of fat-soluble vitamins that play an important role in blood clotting, bone health, and maintaining healthy levels of calcium in the blood. There are three main forms of vitamin K: K1, K2, and K3. The differences between these forms are:

1. Vitamin K1 (Phylloquinone): This form is mainly found in plant-based foods, such as leafy green vegetables. It is essential for blood clotting and is also involved in bone health.
2. Vitamin K2 (Menaquinone): This form is found in fermented foods and animal products. Vitamin K2 has been shown to lead to unique cardiovascular benefits and is also involved in blood clotting and bone health.
3. Vitamin K3 (Menadione): This is a synthetic, artificially produced form of vitamin K that does not occur naturally. It has demonstrated anticancer and antibacterial properties in test-tube studies, but it has been shown to cause harm in humans and is not available as a dietary supplement.

In summary, vitamin K1 and K2 are naturally occurring forms of vitamin K that play essential roles in blood clotting, bone health, and heart health. Vitamin K3, on the other hand, is a synthetic form that has shown potential harm to humans and is not available as a dietary supplement.

Comparative Table: Vitamin K1 K2 vs K3

Here is a table comparing the differences between Vitamin K1, K2, and K3:

Vitamin K1 and K2 are both naturally occurring forms of vitamin K, while Vitamin K3 is an artificial form that is not found in any natural sources. Vitamin K1 is mainly found in leafy green vegetables, vegetable oils, and some fruits, while Vitamin K2 is abundant in fermented foods, animal products, and natto. Both Vitamin K1 and K2 have a role in blood clotting, heart health, and bone health, but Vitamin K2 has been shown to provide unique cardiovascular benefits. On the other hand, Vitamin K3 is considered harmful to humans and is not available as a dietary supplement.