Vitamin K has properties among which its coagulant potential and disease prevention stand out. Find out more in this article.
With the name of vitamin K, a group of compounds is known that are chemically similar and whose original name is naphthoquinones. The primary source of this vitamin for humans is in vegetables and is acquired through diet.
It is also known by the name of “anti-hemorrhagic vitamin”, since one of its main functions is to facilitate blood clotting. Henrik Dam discovered it in 1935, from experiments with chickens.
Vitamin K Overview
It is a lipophilic vitamin, that is to say, soluble in fat. It has been found that vitamin K is an essential complement of vitamin D. This means that for one to be activated, it needs the other. Otherwise, there are deficiencies in the functioning of the organism.
It is common to be deficient in this vitamin. The vast majority have reserves of the vitamin that are sufficient for clotting, but not to prevent other health problems.
Recent research suggests that vitamin K also works favorably against diseases such as osteoporosis. It also fights heart problems, diabetes, various types of cancer, and even Alzheimer’s disease.
Types of vitamin K
There are three types of vitamin K. K1 or phytonadione, K2 or menaquinone, and K3 or menadione. The first is found naturally in vegetables; the second is made by bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, and the third is a synthetic compound.
- Vitamin K1 – Found primarily in leafy green foods, especially spinach, kale, broccoli, and lettuce. Also in vegetable oils, blueberries, figs, meat, cheese, eggs, soybeans, etc.
- Vitamin K2 – Found in fermented foods, unpasteurized dairy products, kefir, and sauerkraut. It is in small amounts in lamb, duck, beef liver, dark turkey meat, and chicken liver.
- Vitamin K3: This synthetic product has been a source of controversy due to its toxicity, especially in infants.
Vitamin K2 is the most beneficial for the body. It is known to protect the heart and help prevent osteoporosis. Vitamin K2 is three times more effective than K1 in bone regeneration processes.
Indications
- Clotting factor disorders. It is a rare genetic disorder, which is partially treated with vitamin K administration. However, the response of patients is variable.
- Hemorrhagic disease of the newborn. It is also a rare and serious disease that puts the baby’s life at risk.
- Vitamin K deficiency. People at risk of vitamin K deficiency are those with chronic malnutrition. Also, those who have conditions, or take medications, limit the absorption of dietary vitamins.
- Warfarin ingestion. Some of the patients taking warfarin may need vitamin K. Warfarin is an anticoagulant medication, the effects of which must eventually be reversed.
- Cardiovascular disorders. There is inconclusive evidence that vitamin K improves cardiovascular functions.
- Cystic fibrosis. This disease decreases the levels of vitamin K, which is why its additional intake is advisable.
- Osteoporosis prevention. Studies show that vitamin K helps prevent osteoporosis and facilitates bone regeneration processes.
Although not enough studies are available, it has also been suggested that this vitamin helps to slow down the effects of Alzheimer’s disease and some types of cancer. Also, it is considered that it is advisable to treat cases of primary biliary cirrhosis, coronary heart disease and others.
It is certainly a vitamin worth consuming. Incorporate the foods that contain it into your daily diet and enjoy its benefits. If you suffer from any of the diseases described above, consult your doctor before.