Why Vitamin K is Essential to Your Health?
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin which is important for the proper functioning of the
body. This vitamin has two types: K1 and K2. K1 is obtained from green leafy
vegetables). On the other hand, K2 is present in animal foods, fermented foods, and
synthesized by the body’s flora.
Blood Clotting
One of vitamin K’s key functions is to assist in the process of blood clotting. It makes
four of the 13 proteins needed for blood clothing. This function helps avoid excessive
bleeding when injuries occur. When vitamin K is low in levels, the body cannot
synthesize prothrombin, a protein that assists the coagulation of blood. This means that
even the cut or scratch injuries might take a long time to heal due to excessive blood
flow.
If the amount of vitamin K in the body is sufficient, clots can easily be formed in order to
stop bleeding. So significant is the action of this nutrient that newborns are routinely
given a vitamin K injection in their umbilical cord to prevent them from bleeding
problems.
Strengthens the Bone
Vitamin K is also necessary for bones. For bone health, people usually focus more on
calcium and vitamin D. But vitamin K has quite an important supporting role. This
nutrient helps with the activation of osteocalcin. Osteocalcin is one of the proteins
needed for calcium binding to the bone matrix.
Research has shown that individuals with higher vitamin K intake tend to have better
bone mineral density. This means that vitamin K not only helps build stronger bones
but also prevents osteoporosis. As you age, maintaining strong bones is essential for
mobility, independence, and quality of life.
Symptoms of Vitamin K Deficiency
● A deficiency of vitamin K can result in excessive bleeding, such as on the gums or
nose.
● Frequent bruises can mean easy bleeding as the blood vessels are unable to clot.
● A lower level of vitamin K may also weaken bones, causing pain and fractures.
● Newborns are most exposed due to small deposition of vitamin K in the liver.
● Adults with absorption issues (e.g., celiac, Crohn’s disease) are at risk.
● Long-term antibiotic use can reduce vitamin K levels by disrupting gut bacteria.
Conclusion
Vitamin K is essential for both blood clotting and bone health. To maintain these
important processes, it is essential to make sure that the diet has plenty of vitamin K,
mostly more leafy vegetables and crucifers.
Other symptoms to look for in case of any other known factors of deficiency would be
easy bruising, and excessive bleeding. Go for vitamin K, it will keep your bones strong
and your body healthy