Vitamin K

Essential for

blood clotting
bone metabolism
kidney function

Absorption and metabolism

Vitamin K requires the presence of fats and bile in the gut in order to be absorbed.

Deficiency

Vitamin K deficiency in adults is rare and is usually limited to those who have liver or food absorption disorders. Symptoms include prolonged clotting time, easy bleeding and bruising. It may contribute to osteoporosis. Deficiency can occur in premature babies.

Sources

Good sources include dark leafy greens, oils from green plants and some dairy products. Vitamin K is also produced by gut bacteria.

Daily recommended dietary intakes

Men                        80 mcg

Women                  65 mcg

Pregnancy             65 mcg

Lactation                65 mcg

Toxic effects of excess intake

Reports of toxic effects are rare. Some forms of supplements may cause anemia. Some studies suggest links between vitamin K injections and an increased risk of childhood cancer.

Interactions

X-rays, aspirin, mineral oil, cholestyramine and anticonvulsant drugs, such as phenytoin, can raise vitamin K requirements. Long- term use of antibiotics can produce vitamin K deficiency.

Therapeutic uses of supplements

Vitamin K supplements are used to prevent hemorrhages and may also be useful in the treatment of osteoporosis.

Cautions

Vitamin K can interfere with the action of anticoagulant drugs such as warfarin.

Vitamin K Categories:

Vitamin K
Vitamin K health
Vitamin K deficiency
Vitamin K sources
Vitamin K recommended daily
Vitamin K overdose
Vitamin K supplements
Vitamin K interactions

Other Vitamins:

Vitamin A
Carotenes
Beta carotene
Lycopene
Lutein
Thiamin
Riboflavin
Niacin
Vitamin B6
Folate
Vitamin B12
Biotin
Pantothenic acid
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
Vitamin E
Vitamin K