About this episode
Researchers created vitamin K analogues that cross the blood-brain barrier more effectively, which eventually turn into the bioactive form, menaquinone-4 (MK-4) Higher levels of MK-4 in brain tissue correlate with 17% to 20% lower dementia risk and reduced Alzheimer's-related brain damage Vitamin A's active form, retinoic acid, enhances synaptic plasticity and memory formation, with deficiencies linked to cognitive impairment and neuropsychiatric disorders Both vitamin K and retinoic acid signaling naturally decrease with aging, contributing to reduced neurogenesis and weakened memory circuits in older adults Consume K2-rich fermented foods, pair with healthy fats for absorption, combine with vitamin D3 and magnesium, and include vitamin A sources like leafy greens