Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a vital role in bone metabolism and blood clotting. It has different compounds in a group; vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) and vitamin K2 (menaquinones) are the most important compounds. Green leafy vegetables are a good source of vitamin K1, whereas compounds made from bacteria, meat, eggs and cheese provide vitamin K2.  Vitamin K supplements usually contain vitamin K1.

Why is Vitamin K necessary?

Vitamin K aids in producing many proteins, which are necessary for blood clotting and bone formation. Prothrombin is a Vitamin K-dependent protein that aids in the clotting of blood. Another protein requiring vitamin K is osteocalcin to which make bone tissue healthy. Increased vitamin K levels in the blood have been related to increased episodic memory in older adults. Vitamin K can contribute to lower blood pressure by attempting to prevent the build-up of minerals in arteries. It helps the heart to pump blood through the body easily.

Mineralization occurs naturally with age and is an important cardiac disease risk factor. By taking Vitamin K, can prevent this risk factor.

Vitamin K deficiency:

In the adult, vitamin K deficiency is rare; it may cause haemorrhage and excessive bleeding if left untreated. Prothrombin, a clotting factor required for blood clotting and bone metabolism, cannot be produced without vitamin K. deficiency can occur in people who take drugs that block the metabolism of Vitamin K such as antibiotics or in people who are affected by food and nutrient malabsorption such as celiac disease, short-bowel syndrome, cystic fibrosis, and ulcerative colitis. There is also a deficiency of vitamin K in newborns since vitamin K does not pass through the placenta. The small amount of blood clotting proteins in blood at birth increases a child’s risk of bleeding if vitamin K supplements are not added. The most frequent signs of a deficiency are increased prothrombin time and coagulation time, haemorrhage, bleeding osteoporosis or osteopenia.

How can you Reach Your Daily Intake?

The daily dose of vitamin E depends on age and sex. Women should take 90mcq per day, and men should take 120mcq per day. Along with Vitamin k supplement from the vitamin shop, Vitamin k rich food is enough to meet the daily requirement of Vitamin k. Kala, swiss chord, parsley, dairy products, meat, eggs, margarine, Canola oil, olive oil, peanuts, and almonds are a good source of vitamin K.

Side Effects and Warnings

A well-balanced diet provides adequate vitamin K for the majority of the population. There is no tolerable upper limit of Vitamin K.  The toxicity due to consuming foods containing vitamin K is rare and unlikely.   Taking any supplement can, however, lead to toxicity. Vitamin K interacts with several drugs like antibiotics, blood thinners, cholesterol-lowing drugs and weight-loss medicines. Vitamin K supplements from the vitamin shop can only be used in case of vitamin deficiency under physician supervision.  

Pearls of wisdom:

Most people get daily Vitamin K from a balanced diet. An excessive amount of vitamin K can cause bleeding and other health issues, so consult your physician before starting Vitamin K supplements.