K (Vitamin K) DESCRIPTION: Vitamin K is necessary for proper bone formation and blood clotting. It is administered to all new-born infants to prevent the development of deficiencies, a risk in breast-fed infants. Leafy green vegetables are the best source of vitamin K. The natural vegetable form of vitamin K is called phylloquinone. FUNCTIONS Vitamin K is needed for the proper transport of Calcium in the body. For this reason, it is essential for proper bone formation and blood clotting. Vitamin K also enhances the effects of calcium on these functions.   DEFICIENCY Deficiencies in vitamin K can cause uncontrolled bleeding, although the condition occurs rarely. Individuals with certain malabsorption diseases and breast-fed babies are at increased risk of vitamin K deficiency. REQUIREMENTS 65-80 mg daily. Eating vegetables can be sufficient to obtain the daily requirement. Back to Top   SUPPLEMENTAL USES Coeliac Disease: Vitamin K is a suggested supplement for Coeliac Disease patients who have a vitamin K deficiency. Osteoporosis: Vitamin K can help fight Osteoporosis by enhancing the effects of calcium and facilitating the building of bone. Morning sickness: Vitamin K may be helpful for treating morning sickness. The effect may be enhanced if combined with Vitamin C (1). Warfarin: Medical doctors use vitamin K to treat overdose of the drug warfarin, an anticoagulant that slows blood clotting. People who are taking warfarin and require surgery are also given vitamin K to prevent excessive bleeding. Back to Top   SAFETY Phylloquinone does not appear to cause any side effects. Back to Top   INTERACTIONS AND CONTRA-INDICATIONS The action of some prescription blood thinners may be disrupted by vitamin K. Only under medical supervision should people taking these drugs use Vitamin K supplementation. Back to Top   FOOD SOURCES Food (mcg/ 100 g) Turnip greens 650 Beef kidney 100-300 Beef liver 100-300 Broccoli 100-300 Cabbage 100-300 Cauliflower 100-300 Lettuce 100-300 Soybean 100-300 Spinach 100-300 Alfafa 10-100 Bacon 10-100 Bran flake 10-100 Butter 10-100 Cheese 10-100 Egg yolk 10-100 Potato 10-100 Strawberry 10-100 Tomato 10-100 Whole wheat 10-100 REFERENCES: 1. Merkel, R. "The use of menadione bisulfite and ascorbic acid in the treatment of nausea and vomiting ofpPregnancy." Am J Ob Gyn. 1952, 64, pp. 416-418. Back to Top   Related News Stories   The Benefits of Bacteria The role played by "friendly" bacteria in the body.   Vitamin K and bone problems Vitamin K helps prevent against diseases of the bone, like osteoporosis, and an adequate intake should be ensured particularly for the elderly and vegetarians.   Supplements for postmenopausal women The results of trials on postmenopausal women suggest they may benefit from increased intake of certain nutrients to protect against bone loss Back to top