Could This Overlooked Vitamin Be the Key to Healthier Bones?

Could This Overlooked Vitamin Be the Key to Healthier Bones?

Author: Dr. Mercola August 31, 2026 Duration: 6:49
  • Vitamin K does far more than support blood clotting; research in mice found it helps regulate the constant cycle of removing old bone and building new bone — a process that influences long-term bone strength
  • Researchers identified a vitamin K-dependent protein called GAS6 that acts as a messenger between bone-building cells and bone-removing cells, helping coordinate the remodeling process that keeps your skeleton healthy
  • Bone-building cells use vitamin K at remarkably high levels; researchers found that the enzymes responsible for vitamin K activity were 10 to 40 times more abundant in bone-building cells than in bone-removing cells, a sign that bone-building cells are among the body's heaviest users of vitamin K, on par with the liver
  • Foods rich in vitamin K2, including egg yolks, liver, Gouda, Brie, and fermented foods such as natto, help direct calcium into your bones and teeth instead of allowing it to accumulate in soft tissues
  • Protecting your bones involves more than getting enough calcium; adequate protein, healthy vitamin D levels, regular weight-bearing exercise, avoiding soft drinks, and reducing seed oils all support the cellular energy and nutrient balance required for healthy bone remodeling

Each week, Dr. Joseph Mercola-Take Control of Your Health offers a direct conversation about navigating the often-confusing world of wellness. Dr. Mercola brings decades of experience as a natural health advocate to these discussions, focusing on practical strategies that go beyond conventional approaches. The episodes dig into the interconnected areas of holistic health, physical fitness, and alternative methods for building resilience. You’ll hear detailed explorations of how everyday choices impact long-term vitality, with an emphasis on personal agency and evidence-informed alternatives. This isn’t about quick fixes but about understanding the underlying principles that can help you make better decisions for yourself and your family. The tone is straightforward and investigative, aiming to equip you with knowledge that is frequently overlooked. Tuning into this podcast feels like accessing a deep resource of non-mainstream health perspectives, all centered on the fundamental goal of sustainable well-being. It’s for anyone who feels that managing their health requires looking at the full picture, from nutrition and movement to the less obvious environmental factors. Dr. Mercola’s weekly insights serve as a catalyst for taking a more active, informed role in your own health journey.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Dr. Joseph Mercola - Take Control of Your Health
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