Although vitamin K is found in many foods, it sometimes happens that our body does not have enough of it. It is usually associated with various diseases or an inadequate diet, among others. However, we must remember that vitamin K is very important for our body. See how to recognize when we have shortages.
- Vitamin K primarily supports the blood clotting process. This is why it is given to newborns right after birth
- It also has a positive effect on bone health and heart function
- Vitamin K deficiency is extremely rare. This is because it is found in many foods, including in green vegetables, avocados, oils or liver
- If there is not enough of it in our body, we may notice, for example, numerous bruises, bleeding from the nose and gums, heavy menstruation or blood in the stool.
- In order to combat vitamin K deficiency, it is necessary to supplement it and to eat it properly
- You can find more up-to-date information on the TvoiLokony home page
Properties of vitamin K
Vitamin K is fat soluble. Under natural conditions, it exists in two forms: as phylloquinone (vitamin K1) and menaquinones (vitamin K2 and MK). Its main task is to support the blood clotting process. It is thanks to her that we do not bleed out when there are minor scratches or abrasions. This is because vitamin K produces four of the thirteen proteins responsible for blood clotting.
It is given to newborns right after birth for a reason. This is usually done by injection. In newborns there is a deficiency of this vitamin, which increases with each hour of life. Giving them vitamin K protects them, among other things, from bleeding out.
This is not its only function. Experts argue that vitamin K also reduces the risk of hip fractures and protects against low bone density. This is because it is involved in the formation of osteocalcin. It is the most important non-collagen protein in bone tissue.
Another important advantage of vitamin K is that it has a positive effect on our heart. This is mainly because it is involved in the production of Gla matrix proteins (MGPs). These, in turn, help to prevent calcification and hardening of the arteries. Recent research has also proven that vitamin K has an anti-inflammatory effect. Thanks to this, it protects our heart against oxidative stress.
Symptoms of vitamin K deficiency
Vitamin K deficiency is extremely rare. Mainly because it is found in many foods. Usually, we are able to provide our body with the right amount of this vitamin with food. If this is not possible, it may be due to, among other things, disturbances in the digestive process or absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. It is also influenced by excessive use of alcohol and some medications that we take. They can interfere with the absorption of vitamin K. One of the most characteristic signs of vitamin K deficiency are bruises appearing for no reason.
The most common symptoms of vitamin K deficiency:
- the appearance of numerous bruises on the body,
- frequent bleeding from the nose or gums,
- heavy menstruation,
- excessive bleeding from wounds, abrasions, punctures,
- blood in urine or blood in stools
- gastrointestinal bleeding.
If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to consult your doctor. They should order tests to help determine if you are deficient in this vitamin. If that’s the case, your doctor will likely recommend you take oral or injection supplementation. Patients with certain chronic diseases have to take it for life.
At Medonet Market you will find preparations with vitamin K:
- Vitamin K2 from Now Foods
- Vitamin K2MK-7 SOLHERBS
- Vitamin K 100 mcg from Puritan’s Pride
- Vitamin K2 MK-7 45ug Viridian
Vitamin K sources
Vitamin K deficiencies can also be combated through a proper diet. Here are the products with the most of it:
- green vegetables (including kale, broccoli, spinach, lettuce, Brussels sprouts),
- an avocado,
- liver (mainly beef),
- soybean oil,
- olive oil,
- rapeseed oil,
- egg yolks,
- basil,
- coriander.