Vitamin K
Vitamin K has for a long time now been known to play a critical role in blood clotting. But recently research has found that the importance of vitamin K may command a bigger following because of its importance to the integrity and strength of bones becomes.
Vitamin K is actually a group of fat soluble vitamins that are needed for synthesis of certain proteins. Mostly they are required for blood coagulation but they are also important for bone strength.
Benefits of Vitamin K
Recent U.S studies have found that people are not getting enough Vitamin K and people should consider consciously eating more vegetables containing this very important vitamin or using a Vitamin K supplement.
- Thought to Reduce the Risk of Alzheimer’s
- Aids in Blood Clotting
- Helps to Absorb Calcium
- Helps Prevent Osteoporosis
- Has preventive and treatment benefits for cancer
- Prevents the hardening of the Arteries
- Reduces High Cholesterol
- Reduces Spider Veins
- Reduces Stretch Marks
Vitamin K Deficiency Symptoms
Vitamin K is also made by bacterial synthesis in intestines and a deficiency in Vitamin K that shows signs of symptoms is uncommon.
- Heavy Bleeding
- Anemia
- Blood in the Urine (Hematuria)
- Easy Bruising
- Bleeding of the Gums
- Prolonged Clotting Times
Diseases Related to Vitamin K Deficiency
- Osteoporosis
- Calcification of Arteries (Arteriosclerosis)
- Heart Disease
- Alzheimer’s
- Diabetes
People with a Risk of Vitamin K Deficiency
Vitamin K deficiency is rare and usually only occurs when the body can’t properly absorb the vitamin from the intestinal tract. Other people that may be at risk are individuals that are on long term use of antibiotics.
Best Vitamin K Supplements
Several Forms of vitamin K are used around the world as medicine. But in the U.S. the only form available is vitamin K1 (phytonadione). Vitamin K1 is usually the preferred form because it is considered to be less toxic, works faster, and is stronger than other forms. Other popular forms include vitamin K2 (Menaquinone), and Vitamin K3 (Menadione).
Vitamin K Foods
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Soybeans
- Brussels Sprout
Vitamin K Overdose
There is no known associated with high doses of vitamin K. People on Warfarin (Coumadin) need to be careful when taking vitamin K because it will interfere with their clotting time.
Vitamin K Interactions
As mentioned above vitamin K should not be taken when on Warfarin (Coumadin). Using vitamin K and Coenzyme Q-10 which is similar to vitamin K could increase blood clotting and cause problems for certain people.
Recommended Daily Allowance of Vitamin K
- 0-6 months: 2.0 mcg/day
- 7-12 months: 2.5 mcg/day
- 1-3 years: 30 mcg/day
- 4-8 years: 55 mcg/day
- 9-13 years: 60 mcg/day
- 14-18 years: 75 mcg/day
- ≥ 19 years: 90 mcg/day