Vitamin K is a fat soluble vitamin which is essential for the body. The ‘K’ has been derived from the German word ‘koagulation’, meaning clotting in English. Coagulation is the process by which blood clots are formed in the body. It is necessary for the performance of various proteins involved in blood clotting. There are various forms of Vitamin K. Phylloquinone is the plants synthesized form and is also known as vitamin K1. The Bacteria synthesized form is called menaquinone or K2 and the synthetic or man made form of the vitamin is called K3.
Benefits:
Blood Clotting: This is the most important function of Vitamin K. It is used in the body to help in the process of blood clotting. It is essential for manufacturing the liver protein that controls clotting. It plays a significant role in the creation of prothrombin, the precursor to thrombin that plays a significant role in blood clotting. Vitamin K augments the process of healing by stopping the bleeding and is given to patients prior to surgery in order to avoid excessive bleeding.
Bones: It is used in the process of bone formation and repair. It helps the body absorb calcium in adequate quantities and even helps prevent or treat osteoporosis and the loss of bone density.
It helps in the conversion of glucose to glycogen in the intestines that can be stored in the liver.
It prevents the hardening of the arteries, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease.
Certain medical studies also indicate that it is useful in the prevention and treatment of cancer.
It also promotes longevity.
Food Sources:
Vitamin K is present in various sources such as green, leafy vegetables, bacon, green tea, coffee, asparagus, cheese, liver, spinach, celery etc. Many people are unable to get the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of the vitamin on a daily basis and must resort to supplementation.
Deficiency:
A deficiency of this Vitamin in infants results in hemorrhagic disease. In adults it may result in postoperative bleeding, hematuria, hematomas, intercranial hemorrhages etc. Symptoms of the deficiency include nosebleeds, gastrointestinal bleeding, heavy menstrual bleeding, anemia, gum bleeding, hematomas, prolonged clotting time, ovarian hemorrhaging, easy bruising etc.
Dosage:
The recommended dosage of the Vitamin depends of various factors such as age, gender, dietary intake etc. The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for Vitamin K is 80 micrograms per day in males and 70 micrograms per day in females. The toxicity level of the vitamin should also be kept in mind while taking the supplementation.
Side Effects:
Toxicity does not occur if the vitamin is taken in normal doses but if higher doses of the synthetic compound Vitamin K3 are taken, it is likely to happen. This may result in flushing, sweating, anemia, jaundice etc. It is advisable for you to consult your doctor before taking the vitamin if you are on an anti-coagulant medication.
Vitamin K can be destroyed by freezing or when it is exposed to radiation and air pollution. In the presence of rancid fats, its absorption is significantly decreased. Its effectiveness decreases in the presence of antibiotics, high doses of vitamin E, refined sugar, calcium and mineral oils. For maximum benefits, it should be taken with dietary fats.
It is not meant for children and pregnant or lactating women. It might be helpful in clotting of bleeding wounds and bruises, but an overdose can be extremely harmful for the body.
It is necessary for you to consult a registered medical practitioner before taking any additional nutrients in order to determine if your body has a requirement for it or not. You must also keep your medical condition, allergies and family medical history in mind before ingesting any supplements. You must also make note of any ailments you might be suffering from such as diabetes, heart disease, cancers, osteoporosis, asthma, kidney disorder, liver disorder, hypertension etc. before taking any nutrient.
Vitamins and minerals help in the proper functioning of the body, but must be taken under supervision of a health expert. It is the combination of exercise, diet and rest that works towards maintaining the complete health of the individual.
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