The REAL Reason Why Your Arteries are Calcifying and Turning into Bone

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Preventing Arterial Calcification and Heart Issues

1. Understand the Warning Signs of Heart Issues:

   • Experiencing chest pain that is relieved when you rest may indicate a heart problem.
   • Referral pain to your left shoulder, arm, back, jaw, or head could be a sign of heart issues.
   • Heartburn-like symptoms without actual heartburn.
   • Shortness of breath, especially during exercise or climbing stairs.
   • In some cases, heart attacks can occur without any prior symptoms.

2. Learn about Arterial Calcification:

   • Arterial calcification leads to hardening of the arteries, increasing stress on the cardiovascular system.
   • Calcium deposits in the arteries can lead to serious health concerns.
   • The type of calcium found in arteries is hydroxyapatite, similar to the calcium found in bones.

3. Importance of Calcium Testing:

   • Consider getting a CAC (Coronary Artery Calcification) score test to determine the level of calcium in your arteries.
   • Ideally, aim for a CAC score of zero to minimize the risk of heart attacks and mortality.

4. Understanding Bone Tissue and Arterial Calcification:

   • In bones, osteoblasts build bone tissue, while osteoclasts break down bone.
   • Excessive osteoblast activity in arteries can lead to calcification, turning arteries into bone-like structures.
   • Stem cells in the arteries may start producing bone tissue, causing differentiation issues.

5. Role of Vitamin K2 in Preventing Arterial Calcification:

   • Vitamin K2 inhibits the formation of bone tissue in arteries by regulating osteoblast activity.
   • Adequate vitamin K2 levels help keep calcium in bones and out of arteries, promoting strong bone health.

6. Addressing Vitamin K2 Deficiency:

   • Vitamin K2 can be obtained from fermented foods like natto, sauerkraut, cheeses, and kefir.
   • Grass-fed butter and raw butter are good sources of vitamin K2.
   • Consider taking natural MK7 form of vitamin K2 along with vitamin D3 for optimal absorption.

7. Factors Affecting Vitamin K2 Absorption:

   • Liver health and bile production influence the absorption of vitamin K2.
   • Inflammation in the gut, gallbladder issues, and gut surgery can impact K2 absorption.
   • Avoid mainstream dietary recommendations that may lack essential nutrients like vitamin K2.

8. Maintaining a Balanced Diet for Heart Health:

   • Focus on a diet rich in leafy greens, fermented foods, and quality fats to support heart health.
   • Consider supplementing with vitamin K2 and D3 to prevent arterial calcification and maintain bone strength.

9. Monitoring Vitamin D3 Intake:

   • Keep the ratio of vitamin D3 to vitamin K2 at around 100 micrograms for optimal health benefits.
   • Be cautious of vitamin D3 toxicity, which can lead to hypercalcemia, and ensure adequate vitamin K2 intake to counterbalance it.

By following these steps and understanding the role of vitamin K2 in preventing arterial calcification, you can take proactive measures to support your heart health and overall well-being.