Vitamin K: Health benefits, deficiency, and usage

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin and the word Vitamin K is obtained from the German word “Koagulationsvitamin.” Vitamin K is the vitamin that is used in the blood clotting and healing of wounds. It is found in leafy green vegetables, and many other vegetables and fruits. 

A different form of Vitamin K is available in form of supplements but Vitamin K is a more effective and preferable form as it is stronger, less toxic, and effective for different conditions. 

Uses of Vitamin K

Vitamin K is used for the blood clotting and healing of wounds. It is also used for thinning of the blood. People who have a deficiency of vitamin K can take it through diet or supplements to meet the deficiency and prevent different diseases. 

• Phylloquinone is known as Vitamin K1 and it is found in plants. When people eat it, the bacteria of the body convert the vitamin K1 form to vitamin K2 which is a storage form. Then, it is absorbed in the small intestine, liver, or fatty tissues. 
• If there is a deficiency of vitamin k in the body then the body cannot make prothrombin which is essential for bone metabolism and blood clotting. 

The recommended amount of Vitamin K

The daily intake of vitamin K depends on gender and age. 

· Vitamin K for Men

The recommended amount of Vitamin K for men is 120mcg a day.

· Vitamin K for Women

The recommended amount of Vitamin K for women is 90mcg a day. 

Vitamin K Deficiency 

The deficiency of Vitamin can cause excessive bleeding. Bleeding can occur near the areas of small wounds and cuts but it can also appear in those who have

• Bruises easily and get small cuts near the nail area. 
• Bleeding in mucous membranes 
• Dark black stools with some blood.

Prevent Vitamin K deficiency 

If the newborns have a deficiency of vitamin K then a single shot of vitamin K is given to them to prevent severe problems. 

People who are suffering from fat malabsorption should take Vitamin K supplements after asking from a healthcare professional. 

People should meet the recommended daily amount of Vitamin K through diet. 

Health Benefits of Vitamin K

The benefits of taking vitamin K are;

1. Vitamin K prevents Blood clotting

Vitamin K is essential to prevent blood clotting and excessive bleeding when small wounds and injuries occur. It plays an essential role in producing pro-blood clotting proteins which are also known as prothrombin, anticoagulant, X, IX, and VII.

In some people, despite prothrombin production, they get clots easily. Then, blood-thinning supplements like warfarin are recommended by doctors. 

2. Vitamin K stronger bones 

Vitamin k is essential for stronger vitamin D is essential. Vitamin K which is a fat-soluble vitamin is required for the production of the enzyme gamma-glutamyl carboxylase which makes osteocalcin by carboxylation process. Osteocalcin is essential for stronger bones. 

Vitamin K reduces the risk of bone fractures and osteoporosis. It also prevents bone loss and reduces hip fractures in older people. 

3. Vitamin K recovers episodic memory in older people

Vitamin K-dependent proteins are essential for the proper functioning of lipids found in cell membranes of the brain. Changes in the sphingolipid’s metabolism affect cognitive functions and can cause Alzheimer’s which is a neurodegenerative disease. 

4. Vitamin K maintains blood pressure 

Taking an adequate amount of Vitamin K promotes heart health and prevents different chronic diseases like heart stroke, high blood pressure, hypertension), and heart attack. 

Deficiency of Vitamin K causes an increase in systolic and diastolic blood pressures which can cause heart attack and hypertension. 

Vitamin K prevents mineralization and maintains high blood pressure.