Vitamin K

Phylloquinone

Description

Vitamin K is a liposoluble vitamin that accumulates in fat. It plays a major role in blood coagulation and is essential for building strong bones.

Sources

80% of our vitamin K needs are provided by our own bowel bacteria.

The rest comes from green vegetables, eggs and meat. It is also found in vegetable oil, particularly soybean oil.

Those taking vitamin E supplements should make sure that their vitamin K needs are being met since vitamin E reduces its absorption.

Those taking anticoagulants such as warfarin (Coumadin®) should avoid ingesting large quantities of vitamin K-rich foods. For more information, speak to your pharmacist.

Adequate intake (AI)

AI is the recommended average daily nutrient intake based on estimates of nutrient intake by groups of healthy people.

Some experts recommend taking 100 to 150 mcg per day to help maintain bone strength. A well balanced diet can easily supply this quantity.

Deficiency

Vitamin D accumulates in the liver and body stores can last several months.

In children and adults, vitamin K deficiency is rare and is generally the result of malabsorption syndrome, liver disease or the prolonged use of antibiotics. This results in haemorrhaging and bruising as well as skeletal disorders.

Newborns have a natural vitamin K deficiency which can lead to hemorrhagic disease of the newborn. This is prevented by the administration of a supplement.

Toxicity

No cases of toxicity have been reported.

Supplements

Generally speaking, supplements are not necessary except in newborns.

To prevent bleeding associated with hemorrhagic disease of the newborn, all babies are given an intramuscular injection within six hours of birth.

Vitamin K is also a widely used antidote for anticoagulants.

Watch what you eat. Nutrition has a significant impact on health!