Peat Archive

Ray Peat discussed vitamin K primarily in the context of calcium metabolism, blood clotting, and cardiovascular health. Vitamin K2 in particular activates proteins (like osteocalcin and matrix GLA protein) that direct calcium into bones and teeth and away from soft tissues like arteries. Peat saw this as complementary to his emphasis on adequate calcium and vitamin D intake — all three nutrients work together to maintain proper calcium distribution.

Peat recommended obtaining vitamin K from dietary sources, particularly fermented foods and animal products that contain the K2 form. He noted that the K2 form (menaquinone) is more relevant to calcium metabolism than the K1 form (phylloquinone) found in leafy greens, though both have important roles.