Why you need it? Vitamin K is needed in the liver for the formation of several substances that promote the formation of blood clots (blood clotting factors) including prothrombin (clotting factor II) and proper bone formation, by helping the body transport calcium. Vitamin K is involved in the synthesis of a protein, osteocalcin, which is found in high amounts in bone. It allows calcium ions to bind, thus resulting in the calcification of bone. Vitamin K is involved in the synthesis of a kidney protein that functions in the inhibition of Calcium oxalate stone formation via its ability to bind onto calcium in the kidneys. Vitamin K is involved in the synthesis of proteins C and S. Deficiency Symptoms: Vitamin K deficiency leads to low levels of prothrombin (hypoprothrombinaemia) and other clotting factors, resulting in delayed blood clotting and a tendency to bleed. Good Food Sources: Green, leafy vegetables are the best source of vitamin K. In adults and children, intestinal bacteria manufacture a large part of the vitamin K that is required.
Precautions: GRAS- Generally recognized as safe. No adverse reactions, side effects or overdose symptoms expected when taken within the recommended amounts. No adverse effects have been reported as a result of taking vitamin K supplements during pregnancy or lactation. Excess dietary intake of vitamin K has no known harmful effects in healthy adults. There is generally no need to supplement with vitamin K except as part of a multivitamin formula. Synthetic vitamin K (menadione) may cause liver damage and rupture of red blood cells (haemolysis) at large doses and in people with glucose-6-phophate hydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. Patients taking Coumadin (Warfarin): VitaminK inactivates the drug's function; Coumadin interferes with Vitamin K synthesis. Phylloquinone- the natural vegetable form of vitamin K- has not been linked with any other side effects. The information provided on this site is for educational purposes only. Neither the information provided nor products supplied or offered should be construed to be in any way substitutes for medical attention or prescribed medication. Consult with your healthcare professional before taking any supplements or herbal remedies if you are suffering from an undiagnosed illness or if you are on prescribed medication.
