DEAR DR. ROACH: I’m a 79-year-old female. Recently, I was diagnosed with moderate calcification of leaflets on my mitral valve. I have no symptoms but heard from a recent talk that even moderate calcification could indicate surgery.

I was taking a D3 supplement but have now stopped. Would taking a K2 supplement have prevented my condition? My doctor did not suggest it. Could taking a K2 supplement possibly slow down the progress of calcium buildup? Do I need a calcium score test? I am hoping not to have the invasive open-heart surgery since it requires taking a blood thinner afterward. Also, the procedure is only guaranteed for 10 years. — M.R.

ANSWER: The calcification of the annulus of the mitral valve (the ring that supports the valve leaflets) is a common condition that is associated with aging. (Age 79 is old enough to have this condition.) Often, there is no effect on the function of the mitral valve. However, people with mitral annular calcification (MAC) are at risk for developing a mitral valve that doesn’t open all the way (mitral stenosis) or that allows the blood to go backward (mitral regurgitation). These may require valve replacement, which is what you are concerned about.

MAC also predicts the calcification of blood vessels, which may block blood flow and ultimately lead to angina or a heart attack. People with MAC should be appropriately treated for this, sometimes with a statin drug. If your doctor isn’t sure whether you need a statin, a coronary artery calcium score may help guide the decision. Statin drugs in people over 75 are generally safe but could possibly interact with other drugs, so clinical judgment is necessary when prescribing these.

Vitamin K2 activates proteins that help drive calcium into the bones, away from blood vessels and heart valves. So, the theory that vitamin K2 would be helpful to treat or prevent osteoporosis — or to reduce disease in the blood vessels and valves of the heart — makes perfect sense.

Unfortunately, two well-done trials in the United States didn’t show a benefit to the bones. A recent review of nine trials of vitamin K2 to reduce calcification in the blood vessels and valves didn’t show a benefit either. So, I don’t recommend vitamin K2 as a treatment, and I don’t think it would have prevented the calcium buildup in your mitral valve.

The decision to replace a mitral valve is made in people with moderate to severe symptoms. I’m afraid that there is no guarantee at all, although the valve is expected to last for a lifetime. Still, this is a risky surgery and is not to be undertaken lightly. Fortunately, since you don’t have any symptoms now, there is a good chance that you will not develop them.

DEAR DR. ROACH: What are the best supplements for memory loss? I heard ginkgo biloba is good. — J.S.

ANSWER: In my opinion, there isn’t good evidence for any over-the-counter supplement to treat or prevent Alzheimer’s or other dementia. Although gingko biloba has been used medicinally for centuries, and some early and small trials seemed to show a benefit, the benefits were not replicated in larger well-done studies. Similarly, the ads that I have seen on television for other supplements are not supported by well-done trials.

The best way to prevent dementia is having a good diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, non-fried fish, seeds and nuts. You should also consume less red meat, simple sugars and starches than what a typical American diet entails. Regular exercise of at least moderate intensity is also important. Supplements are not the answer.

Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med.cornell.edu. (c) 2026 North America Syndicate Inc.

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