Vitamin K is a fat soluble vitamin that is most well known for the important role it plays in blood clotting witch prevents excessive bleeding. However, vitamin K is also absolutely essential to building strong bones, preventing heart disease.
Vitamin K plays a key role in helping the blood clot, Unlike many other vitamins, vitamin K is not typically used as a dietary supplement.
There are three types of Vitamin K
- Vitamin K1, or phylloquinone, is found naturally in plants, especially green vegetables. K1 goes directly to your liver and helps you maintain healthy blood clotting.
- Vitamin K2, or menaquinone, is made by the bacteria that line in gastrointestinal tract. K2 goes straight to your blood vessel walls, bones, and tissues other than liver.
- Vitamin K3, or menadione, is a synthetic form.
Uses Of Vitamin K
Low levels of vitamin K can raise the risk of uncontrolled bleeding. While vitamin K deficiencies are rare in adults, they are very common in newborn infants. A single injection of vitamin K for newborns is standard. Vitamin K is also used to counteract an overdose of the blood thinner Coumadin.
While vitamin K deficiencies are uncommon. But if you
- Have a disease that affects absorption in the digestive tract
- Take drugs that interfere with vitamin K absorption
- Are severely malnourished
- Drink alcohol heavily
you may be at higher risk of vitamin K deficiencies. In such cases, you might suggested vitamin K supplements.
Vitamin K effective against cancer, for the symptoms of morning sickness, for the removal of spider veins, and for other conditions are unproven.
Good natural food sources of vitamin K.
- Vegetables like spinach, asparagus, and broccoli
- Beans and soybeans
- Eggs
- Strawberries
- Meat
Risks of taking vitamin K?
There have been no adverse effects of vitamin K seen with the levels found in food or supplements. Side effects of oral vitamin K at recommended doses are rare.
Antacids, Blood thinners, Antibiotics, Aspirin, Seizures, and drugs for cancer, may interfere with the effects of vitamin K.
People using Coumadin for heart problems, clotting disorders, or other conditions should not use vitamin K supplements unless advised to do so by their health care provider.
