Vitamin K

Overview:

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for blood clotting and bone health. It exists in two main forms: K1 (phylloquinone), found in green leafy vegetables, and K2 (menaquinone), found in animal products and fermented foods.

Sources:

Vitamin K1 is abundant in green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli. Vitamin K2 is found in fermented foods like natto, cheese, and in small amounts in meat and eggs. It is also available in supplement form, often as K1 or K2.

Functions:

Blood Clotting: Vitamin K is crucial for the synthesis of proteins needed for blood clotting, preventing excessive bleeding.

Bone Health: It helps in the regulation of calcium, supporting bone mineralization and reducing the risk of fractures.

Cardiovascular Health: Vitamin K2, in particular, helps prevent the calcification of arteries, promoting cardiovascular health.

Deficiency:

Vitamin K deficiency can lead to increased bleeding and bruising due to impaired blood clotting. It may also contribute to bone density loss and increase the risk of osteoporosis. Newborns are particularly at risk and often receive a vitamin K injection at birth.

Toxicity:

Vitamin K toxicity is rare as it is typically well-regulated by the body. High doses from supplements can interact with anticoagulant medications, so it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting vitamin K supplementation.