Vitamin K is a group of vitamins that play a crucial role in blood clotting and wound healing. Vitamin K also contributes to bone health.
What does vitamin K do for the body?
Blood clotting. One of the primary functions of vitamin K is its role in blood clotting. When a person gets injured and bleeding occurs, several proteins involved in blood clotting rely on vitamin K to aid in the process. Without sufficient vitamin K, blood clotting could be impaired, leading to an increased risk of excessive bleeding.
Bone health. Vitamin K also helps keep our bones healthy. It is believed that vitamin K activates proteins that are required for bone growth and development.
Heart health. Some research suggests that Vitamin K may also have a role in cardiovascular health. It is believed to help prevent calcium from being deposited in the walls of arteries, which could otherwise lead to cardiovascular issues. Further research is needed to determine the link between vitamin K and heart health.
It’s important to maintain an appropriate level of vitamin K in the diet to support these essential functions. As with any nutrient, moderation is key, and vitamin K supplementation should be done with medical supervision to prevent potential adverse effects.
Dietary sources of vitamin K
Some of the main food sources of Vitamin K are:
- Kale
- Cabbage
- Spinach
- Mustard greens,
- Collard greens
- Swiss chard
- Broccolli
- Brussels sprouts
- Asparagus
- Green beans
- Lettuce
- Okra
- Kiwi fruit
- Avocado
- Rhubarb
- Blueberries
- Blackberries
- Pomegranates
- Grapes
- Plums
- Raspberries
- Fermented foods such as kimchi and sauerkraut
Further information and references:
https://www.nutrition.org.uk/media/5xeeolog/vitamins-and-minerals-in-our-food-pdf.pdf
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-k/
The content in this article is for information only and should not replace medical advice or care. Please check with your GP or healthcare professional before trying any supplements, treatments, or remedies.
Photo credit : Pexels / Vanessa Loring
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