Basic Reversal Protocol (Minimum)
Patrick emphasizes that many people ask for the minimum. He states that without adequate magnesium, vitamin D, and free T3, the vitamin K protocol will not work. He also mentions that ketones (from a low-carb diet) support foam cell destruction via autolysis. He considers these non-negotiable for plaque reversal.
Free T3 activates certain enzymes which activate undercarboxylated osteocalcin, which in turn activates vitamin D, which then activates other factors in the reverse calcium transport chain. Ketones are also needed for autolysis of foam cells.
I made sure my free T3 was around 3.8–3.9, normal. I brought my iodine levels up by consuming more iodized salt.
Bring your magnesium levels back to normal. Magnesium in red blood cells—keep it at the upper limit of normal. Bring your vitamin D levels back to normal. Somewhere between 60 and 100 ng/ml. You need to normalize your free T3.

