Vitamin K performs a number of functions, which make it essential for the human body.
It should never be absent in the foods we consume, as it directly affects bone protection, blood clotting and calcification of blood vessels. Vitamin K deficiency is less common in adults, but often occurs in children. Vitamin K is found in plant foods, such as green vegetables, and is also produced in the body. It comes in two forms of vitamin K-1 and is found in plants like spinach and kale.
The second form is known as vitamin K-2 and is found in the body. Both of these vitamins K-1 and K-2 produce proteins that help blood circulation, preventing its coagulation.
There are several reasons why children are deficient in this vitamin, such as drinking breast milk that has low amounts of vitamin K, not transferring vitamin K from the mother's placenta to her baby, and that newborns cannot produce the vitamin. K-2 in their first days of life.
Dietitians and nutrition experts recommend that adult men should consume at least 120 milligrams (mg) per day of vitamin K and women consume 90 mg per day.
Foods high in vitamin K include green vegetables and fermented dairy products.
If a person is diagnosed with vitamin K deficiency, they are given a vitamin K supplement called phytonadione.
The dose given depends on the age and health of the individual. The usual dose for adults varies from 1 to 25 mg.
A doctor will also consider whether a person is taking anticoagulants, as these may interact with vitamin K.
Vitamin K is a vitamin that plays an important role in bone and heart health.
Experts say that vitamin K deficiency in the body can cause thrombosis, bleeding and serious bone problems.
Some of the signs and symptoms of vitamin K deficiency include relief of tanning skin, bleeding from the nose or gums, and bleeding in the digestive system.
People who suffer from chronic malnutrition, alcohol dependence or health problems related to the inability to absorb vitamins are more at risk for vitamin K deficiency.
This important vitamin is found in many natural sources. Mainly herbs like horseradish, spinach, parsnips, turnip leaves and vegetables like kale, cauliflower, broccoli, asparagus, parsley and lettuce.
Other sources of vitamin K are green onions, plums, cucumbers, beef liver, green tea, fish, eggs, dried basil, wheat bran, and fermented dairy products such as yogurt and cheese.
Against blood clots
One of the primary functions of vitamin K is to stabilize blood clotting, a phenomenon that requires continuity of molecules circulating in the blood.
Vitamin K plays a key role in the clotting process that occurs during physical injury or rupture of arteries.
Vitamin K helps transport calcium to the blood, a mineral needed for blood clotting.
Improves bone health
This important vitamin plays a key role in improving bone health and lowering the risk of their fractures.
Vitamin K is especially important for postmenopausal women who are at risk for osteoporosis. The body needs vitamin K to transport calcium, so very useful for bone formation.
Sufficient amounts of vitamin K, especially K2, are beneficial for osteocalcin activation. It is a protein that circulates in the blood and binds calcium ions to bone structure. This protein makes bones stronger.
Supports heart health
Vitamin K is also good for heart health. First of all, it helps lower blood pressure by preventing the accumulation of minerals in blood vessels. This helps the heart pump blood more easily.
The vitamin fights inflammation and protects the constituent cells of veins, veins and arteries. Doing so reduces the likelihood of a cardiac arrest or heart attack.
Expands insulin sensitivity
Vitamin K is valuable for improving insulin resistance and reducing the risk of developing diabetes.
Supports brain functions
This vitamin fights inflammation and protects the brain against oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Oxidative stress can damage brain cells and cause various diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and others.
Vitamin K is probably one of the least known vitamins, but among the most important for the human body.
Vitamin K synthesizes proteins which are essential for blood clotting. If a person bleeds, if there is a deficiency of this vitamin, the bleeding will not stop them endangering their lives. It cooperates with vitamin D to contribute to bone health.
Low levels of vitamin K can increase the risk of bone fractures especially in the elderly.
Where can we find vitamin K?
In spices such as basil, thyme, parsley.
All green vegetables such as: kale, spinach, etc.
Beets, turnips, and other greens.
Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower.
Red pepper, paprika, chili powder, and curry.
Other sources: asparagus, fennel, okra, pickles, soy, olive oil and dried fruits.