Did you know that **vitamin K2** helps prevent calcium buildup in your arteries? This often-overlooked nutrient plays a vital role in cardiovascular health. Let’s explore how it works and the best food sources to get it.
#### **Two Types of Vitamin K**
- **Vitamin K1** – Found in leafy greens like spinach, it supports blood clotting.
- **Vitamin K2** – Primarily found in animal and fermented foods, it directs calcium away from arteries and into bones, reducing the risk of blockages and supporting heart health.
#### **Top Food Sources of Vitamin K2**
- **Natto** (fermented soybeans) – One of the richest sources.
- Grass-fed dairy (butter, cheese)
- Organ meats (beef liver)
- Dark meats (goose leg)
- Sauerkraut and fermented foods
- Egg yolks (especially from free-range chickens)
While calcium is essential, you don’t need supplements unless advised by a doctor. Focus on natural sources like leafy greens and almonds.
#### **The Vitamin D Connection**
Sunlight is the best source of vitamin D, but many people don’t get enough. Without enough vitamin D, your bones can’t absorb calcium properly. Worse, excess calcium may deposit in blood vessels, increasing the risk of **stroke** (brain blockage) or **heart attack** (heart blockage).
Vitamin K2 helps **redirect calcium to bones**, preventing arterial hardening and osteoporosis.
#### **Choosing a K2 Supplement**
Two main forms exist:
- **MK4** – Absorbs quickly but leaves the body faster.
- **MK7** – Stays active longer; a single daily dose is effective.
For best results, pair **MK7 with vitamin D**—they work together to optimize calcium metabolism.
### **The Blood Type Linked to Lower Cancer Risk**
Your blood type may influence your long-term health, including cancer risk. A **2015 study** found that one blood type has a lower likelihood of certain cancers.
#### **How to Find Your Blood Type**
Most people discover their blood type during medical tests. The four main groups are:
- **A, B, AB, O**
Each can be **Rh-positive or Rh-negative** (e.g., A+ or O-).
#### **Which Blood Type Has the Lowest Cancer Risk?**
- **Type O** is linked to a **reduced risk** of pancreatic, stomach, and colorectal cancers.
- Types **A, B, and AB** may have a higher risk of stomach and pancreatic cancers.
However, blood type doesn’t significantly affect cancer survival rates. As Dr. Sanjay Aggarwal notes, *"Type O individuals may have a lower pancreatic cancer risk due to bacterial infection factors."*
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### **Key Takeaways**
- **Vitamin K2** protects arteries and strengthens bones.
- **Pair K2 (MK7) with vitamin D** for optimal benefits.
- **Type O blood** may offer some cancer protection, but lifestyle choices matter more.
Stay informed and prioritize a nutrient-rich diet for long-term health!
