April 21, 2026
How Vitamin K2 MK‑7 May Support Neuromuscular Signaling in Older Adults
A new clinical study suggests that vitamin K2 MK‑7 may support neuromuscular signaling in adults aged 65 and older following exercise. Using Balchem’s K2VITAL ingredient, researchers found age‑specific responses that add to the growing body of evidence on vitamin K2 and healthy aging.
Vitamin K2 MK‑7 is well recognized for its role in bone and cardiovascular health, but new research suggests it may also support neuromuscular signaling in older adults. A recently published clinical study in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise explored the effects of vitamin K2 MK‑7 supplementation on post‑exercise muscle recovery using Balchem’s K2VITAL™ ingredient.
What was the purpose of the TAKEOVER study?
The trial aimed to examine whether 12 weeks of supplementation with vitamin K2 MK‑7 would influence muscle function, soreness, and biomarkers following resistance exercise. Researchers evaluated both younger adults (18 to 40 years) and older adults aged 65 and above. Participants consumed either 240 micrograms per day of K2VITAL™ MK‑7 or placebo.
About the TAKEOVER Study
The study used a double‑blind, randomized controlled design with 71 healthy adults. Before and after the supplementation period, participants completed a structured resistance exercise protocol followed by assessments of muscle strength, soreness, and function. Blood samples were also collected to evaluate biomarkers of muscle damage and inflammation.
What Did the Researchers Discover?
Analysis of the full participant group did not show statistically significant differences between K2 MK‑7 and placebo. However, subgroup analysis of adults aged 65 and older revealed improved neuromuscular signaling in those receiving vitamin K2 MK‑7. These results suggest a potential age‑specific response that could be relevant for supporting nerve muscle communication after exercise.
The Importance of Neuromuscular Signaling
Neuromuscular signaling supports communication between nerves and muscle fibers. This finding point to a possible role for vitamin K2 MK‑7 in supporting this communication pathway in older adults. However, results need to be confirmed by more research.
What Do These Findings Mean for Healthy Aging?
While further research is needed, this study may add to the evolving understanding of how vitamin K2 may contribute to healthy aging beyond its established benefits. Balchem is proud to have supported this work by providing our patented, typically 99.7 percent all‑trans K2VITAL™ MK‑7 ingredient.
Read the full study below, and learn more about K2VITAL™.