Vitamin K1 vs. K2: Which Form Should Be In a Multivitamin?

1 min read

This often overlooked vitamin is no basic nutrient; Vitamin K’s many complex forms provide a myriad of support for functions throughout your body.*

How Vitamin K lends support

In addition to potentially supporting normal blood clotting, K partners with calcium to help support bone health.*

Vitamin K1 vs. K2

There are two main forms of K: Vitamin K1 and Vitamin K2 aka menaquinone (MK). K1 and K2-MK function similarly in our bodies, but there is evidence that K2-MK hangs around in circulation longer than K1. More importantly, Vitamin K2 supplementation has been shown to support bone health.*

Finding the right molecule

Vitamin K is complex. Here’s where it gets interesting. Vitamin K2 has several individual sub-forms. These sub-forms have different molecular lengths and are found in different foods. For example, MK-4 is found mostly in animal-based fats like egg yolks and butter, while MK-7 (a larger molecular form) is mostly in cheese and fermented soy.

Out of all the forms of vitamin K, we went with vegan, soy-free K2-MK7 for Ritual.*

Meet Our Experts

This article features advice from members of our Scientific Advisory Board.

Product image

Dr. Mastaneh Sharafi

SVP, Scientific & Clinical Affairs
Dr. Mastaneh Sharafi is the Senior Vice President of Science and Innovation at Ritual, where she leads the translation of cutting-edge nutritional research into transformative, evidence-based nutrition solutions. A Ph.D. in Nutritional Sciences and a Registered Dietitian, Dr. Sharafi trained at Penn State University and the University of Connecticut and has authored dozens of scientific publications. With expertise spanning clinical studies, dietary patterns, chemosensory perception, and product innovation, she bridges rigorous science with real-world impact and is recognized for her influence within the broader healthcare and nutrition community. Passionate about making complex research accessible and actionable, Dr. Sharafi is committed to advancing public health through evidence-based innovation and a deeper understanding of the science behind what we eat.

Meet The Author

Product image

Victoria Hoff

Writer
Victoria Hoff is an accomplished writer, journalist, and former wellness editor who has covered a wide variety of health, nutrition, and wellness topics during her tenure. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts from New York University, and after writing for Vogue, Elle, Byrdie, The/Thirty, and more, channeled her editorial skills into a marketing career.

Find Your Ritual