Menaquinone vs. Menatetrenone: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Menaquinone is a group of compounds (Vitamin K2), while menatetrenone specifically refers to MK-4, a type of menaquinone.
Key Differences
Menaquinone encompasses a variety of Vitamin K2 compounds with varying side chain lengths. Menatetrenone, specifically, is one form of menaquinone, also known as MK-4, characterized by a particular molecular structure.
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Dec 01, 2023
Menaquinones have diverse structures, classified based on the number of isoprenoid residues in their side chains. Menatetrenone (MK-4) has a specific four-unit side chain. Menaquinones are found in various foods, including fermented foods and animal products, while menatetrenone is particularly abundant in certain animal-based foods like meats.
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Dec 01, 2023
Menaquinone, as a group, plays a crucial role in bone health and blood clotting. Menatetrenone (MK-4) specifically has been studied for its potential benefits in bone health and cardiovascular health, though it shares many functions with other menaquinones.
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Dec 01, 2023
Supplements may contain menaquinone in various forms, including MK-7, MK-8, and MK-9, each with different absorption rates and bioavailability. Menatetrenone (MK-4) supplements are often marketed for bone health and are distinguished by their specific molecular form.
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Dec 01, 2023
Comparison Chart
General Classification
A group of vitamin K2 compounds with various forms
A specific type of menaquinone, also known as MK-4
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Dec 01, 2023
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Chemical Structure
Varies in side chain length, e.g., MK-7, MK-8, etc.
Specifically has a four-unit side chain
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Dec 01, 2023
Primary Sources
Found in fermented foods and some animal products
Abundant in certain animal-based foods like meats
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Dec 01, 2023
Biological Role
Important for bone health, blood clotting, and potentially cardiovascular health
Specifically studied for bone health and may have effects on cardiovascular health
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Dec 01, 2023
Use in Supplements
Available in various forms, each with different absorption rates and bioavailability
Often used specifically for bone health supplements due to its efficient absorption
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Dec 01, 2023
Research Focus
Research covers a broad range of menaquinone forms
Specific research focuses on the benefits of MK-4, particularly for bone health
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Dec 01, 2023
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Menaquinone and Menatetrenone Definitions
Menaquinone
Menaquinones are crucial for bone health and mineralization.
A diet rich in menaquinone can help maintain strong bones.
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Dec 01, 2023
Menatetrenone
Like other menaquinones, menatetrenone aids in blood clotting.
Menatetrenone contributes to the synthesis of clotting factors.
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Dec 01, 2023
Menaquinone
Menaquinone plays a role in the synthesis of blood clotting proteins.
Adequate menaquinone intake is necessary for proper blood clotting.
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Dec 01, 2023
Menatetrenone
Menatetrenone is abundant in certain animal-based foods.
Chicken and eggs are good dietary sources of menatetrenone.
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Dec 01, 2023
Menaquinone
Menaquinone refers to a group of compounds known as Vitamin K2.
Menaquinone, particularly MK-7, is essential for calcium regulation in the body.
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Dec 01, 2023
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Menatetrenone
Menatetrenone is known for its efficient absorption in the body.
Due to its bioavailability, menatetrenone is a preferred form in some supplements.
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Dec 01, 2023
Menaquinone
Menaquinones are found in high amounts in fermented foods.
Natto, a fermented soybean dish, is an excellent source of menaquinone.
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Dec 01, 2023
Menatetrenone
Menatetrenone is MK-4, a specific type of menaquinone.
Menatetrenone is often used in supplements targeting bone health.
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Dec 01, 2023
Menaquinone
Menaquinone may contribute to cardiovascular health.
Regular consumption of menaquinone-rich foods might reduce the risk of heart disease.
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Dec 01, 2023
Menatetrenone
Menatetrenone is known for its role in supporting bone health.
Menatetrenone supplements are recommended for individuals at risk of osteoporosis.
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Dec 01, 2023
Menaquinone
A pale yellow crystalline naphthoquinone C41H56O2 that is obtained especially from putrefied fish meal and produced by bacteria in the large intestine and essential for the blood-clotting process. It is much more unsaturated than vitamin K1 and slightly less active biologically, and is an isoprenoid derivative of menadione.
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Oct 19, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Can menaquinone and menatetrenone be sourced from diet?
Yes, they can be sourced from fermented foods and certain animal products.
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Dec 01, 2023
What is menaquinone commonly known as?
Menaquinone is commonly known as Vitamin K2.
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Dec 01, 2023
How do menaquinones affect blood clotting?
They play a role in synthesizing proteins that are essential for blood clotting.
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Dec 01, 2023
Why is menatetrenone specifically used in supplements?
Menatetrenone (MK-4) is used for its notable effects on bone health and efficient absorption.
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Dec 01, 2023
Are there different types of menaquinone?
Yes, menaquinones vary in their side chain lengths, like MK-4, MK-7, etc.
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Dec 01, 2023
What foods are high in menaquinone?
Fermented foods like natto, cheese, and some animal products are rich in menaquinone.
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Dec 01, 2023
Is menatetrenone the same as Vitamin K1?
No, it's a form of Vitamin K2, whereas Vitamin K1 is phylloquinone, found in green leafy vegetables.
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Dec 01, 2023
Is supplementing with menatetrenone necessary?
It depends on dietary intake and specific health needs; consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended.
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Dec 01, 2023
What is the recommended intake of menaquinone?
The recommended intake varies depending on age, gender, and health status.
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Dec 01, 2023
Are menaquinone and menatetrenone the same?
Menatetrenone is a specific type of menaquinone (MK-4).
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Dec 01, 2023
What are the primary health benefits of menaquinone?
It's known for supporting bone health, aiding blood clotting, and possibly benefiting cardiovascular health.
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Dec 01, 2023
Can vegetarians get enough menaquinone from their diet?
It can be challenging, but fermented vegetarian foods can provide menaquinone.
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Dec 01, 2023
Is menatetrenone beneficial for heart health?
There is some evidence suggesting it may contribute to heart health, but more research is needed.
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Dec 01, 2023
Are there any side effects of taking menatetrenone?
It is generally safe, but high doses can interact with certain medications.
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Dec 01, 2023
Can menaquinone interact with medications?
Yes, it can interact with blood-thinning medications; consultation with a doctor is important.
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Dec 01, 2023
How does menatetrenone support bone health?
It helps in regulating calcium deposition in bones.
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Dec 01, 2023
Is menatetrenone naturally occurring in the body?
It is found in small amounts, but dietary intake is crucial for adequate levels.
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Dec 01, 2023
Do menaquinone supplements differ in quality?
Yes, the quality can vary; it's important to choose high-quality, well-researched products.
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Dec 01, 2023
Can both menaquinone and menatetrenone help with osteoporosis?
Yes, they are both considered beneficial for bone health and may aid in osteoporosis management.
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Dec 01, 2023
How long does it take to see the effects of menatetrenone supplementation?
The effects on bone health can take several months to become noticeable.
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Dec 01, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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