picture of Dr. Bill Bean
Dr. Bill Bean

As a fellow in his 90’s I am often asked: “How did you live so long?” But, as a retired physician I’m asked: “How can ‘I’ live so long, too?”

My answer: understand more about Vitamin K-2, which I believe has very positive health implications for mostly everyone. But for some people this information can be life changing.

I credit the discovery to a fellow Ohioan, the dentist, Dr. Weston Price, who died in 1942. He was the pioneer who searched the world for what he called ‘Activator X’ to improve teeth and bone health. We now know it as Vitamin K2. Much of my knowledge is recently acquired and my quest to understand is ongoing. At 93, I am still learning.

According to a recent study reported by Tufts University Medical School, Vitamin K2 is best obtained by diet. Unfortunately it is challenging for most of us to obtain enough K2 from our diet alone. Proper use of supplements may be useful.

Especially urgent is the need for younger people to get adequate levels of vitamin K2. Being raised and living in a small town allowed me access to healthy fresh foods for many years. Young people growing up in urban environments may need a ‘maintenance dose’ of Vitamin K2.

A deficiency or other condition will require effort to find the optimal dosage for each person. I have taken a ‘therapeutic dose’ of 5,000 micrograms for over a year and I believe K2 eliminated carotid plaques, proven by serial ultrasound exams in both myself and my wife, Marjorie. Also, I believe it was helpful in delaying the mental deterioration she experienced in her final years.

Many factors influence health. Some lifestyle choices, like good nutrition, adequate sleep, and regular exercise are in our control but some are not. Our hereditary or family biology, as well as environment and other factors, need to be considered. I encourage you to learn about vitamin K2 by exploring the resources here.