Information Vitamin K

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Vitamin K is required for

Vitamin K is used in the body to control blood clotting and is

essential for synthesizing the liver protein that controls the

clotting. It is involved in creating the important prothrombin, which

is the precursor to thrombin - a very important factor in blood

clotting. It is also involved in bone formation and repair. In the

intestines it also assists in converting glucose to glycogen, this

can then be stored in the liver. There are some indications that

Vitamin K may decrease the incidence or severity of osteoporosis and

slow bone loss.

Deficiency of vitamin K

A deficiency of this vitamin in newborn babies results in hemorrhagic

disease, as well as postoperative bleeding and hematuria while muscle

hematomas and inter-cranial hemorrhages have been reported.

A shortage of this vitamin may manifest itself in nosebleeds,

internal hemorrhaging.

Dosage

The dosage underneath is the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), but

be aware that this dosage is the minimum that you require per day, to

ward off serious deficiency of this particular nutrient. In the

therapeutic use of this nutrient, the dosage is usually increased

considerably, but the toxicity level must be kept in mind.

Males 80 micrograms per day and females 70 micrograms per day.

Toxicity and symptoms of high intake

Toxicity does not easily occur with normal dietary intake of this

vitamin, but can happen if synthetic compound vitamin K 3 is taken.

High to toxic uptake in the synthetic form can cause flushing and

sweating. Jaundice and anemia may also develop.

If you are taking anti-coagulant (to prevent blood clotting)

medication, consult your medical practitioner before taking a Vitamin

K supplement.

Best used with

Dietary fat is necessary for the absorption of this vitamin.

When more may be required

This nutrient can be destroyed by freezing and radiation as well as

air pollution. Absorption may be decreased when rancid fats are

present, as well as excessive refined sugar, antibiotics, high

dosages of vitamin E, or calcium and mineral oils.

Enemy of vitamin K

When you are prone to bruising easily, or when pregnant you might be

in need of more Vitamin K. But be careful not to take too much

Vitamin K in the last stages of pregnancy, since it could be toxic

for the baby.

Other interesting points

Some people are of the opinion that it also promotes longevity.

Food sources of vitamin K

Vitamin K is found in leafy vegetables, cheese and liver. It is also

found in asparagus, coffee, bacon and green tea.

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