Vitamin K- the Silent but Not Forgotten Element of Hemostasis and Osteoporosis
Vitamin K — a less popular yet crucial vitamin — is central to blood clotting and bone metabolism. Without it, even minor injuries could be fatal, while bones could become brittle. Let’s explore the science and significance of this essential vitamin.
What is Vitamin K?
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that exists in two main forms:
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Vitamin K1 (Phylloquinone): Responsible for green leafy vegetables.
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Vitamin K2 (Menaquinone): Found in fermented foods and animal products.
Both forms are important, but vitamin K2 is especially helpful in promoting bone and cardiovascular wellness.
Main Functions of Vitamin K
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Blood Clotting:Vitamin K helps to activate proteins that regulate blood clots, allowing wounds to heal properly and prevent excessive bleeding. Low enough levels mean even small cuts can lead to bleeding for too long.
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Bone Health:– Enabling osteocalcin, a calcium-binding protein that enhances bone density and decreases the risk of fractures.
— Helps ward off osteoporosis, particularly in older adults.
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Heart Health:Vitamin K regulates the levels of calcium in the blood to prevent it from being deposited into arteries, which helps aid atherosclerosis risk and improve cardiovascular health.
*** Benefits of Vitamin K for Health***
– Promote Bone Health: Improve calcium metabolism which decreases the risk for fractures and osteoporosis
— Enhances Oral Health: Plays a critical role in mineralization — strengthens teeth and gums
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May Reduce Cancer Risk: Vitamin K2 may slow the growth of cancer cells, according to emerging studies.
Sources of Vitamin K
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Vitamin K1:— Kale, spinach, broccoli, collard greens and parsley.
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Vitamin K2:– Foods only available via fermentation such as natto (fermented soybeans), cheese, and yogurt.
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Liver, egg yolks and chicken (animal foods).
Deficiency Symptoms
A vitamin K deficiency is infrequent but can be found among patients with malabsorption disorders or those taking long-term antibiotics. Symptoms include:
- Bleeding more than you would expect or bruising easily.
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Blood in stool or urine.
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Lowered bone density and an increased risk of fractures.
Daily Recommended Intake
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Men: 120 mcg/day.
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Women: 90 mcg/day.Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should seek specific recommendations from a doctor.
#### **Who Should Get More Vitamin K? **
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Newborns, who are usually born with low stores of vitamin K and receive a shot of vitamin K shortly after birth.
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People using anticoagulants (since they may have to monitor their vitamin K intake and balance the medication properly).
Final Thoughts
Though vitamin K doesn’t receive as much sizzle as other vitamins, its role in blood clotting, bone health and heart health is irreplaceable. Eating food sources of vitamin K makes you not miss its benefits. Having a good balance of K1 and K2 intake is necessary for good overall health.
**Find out why vitamin K is so powerful and what your body needs! **