Vitamin K

Vitamin K is another fat-soluble nutrient that plays an important role in the synthesis of clotting factors in the liver. It is involved in production of prothrombin and clotting factors 2,7,9,and 10.

Vitamin K is involved in calcium metabolism and mineralisation of the bone especially in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.

Sources

• Leafy green vegetables, soybeans, cabbage, broccoli, spinach, alfalfa, lettuce.
• Yoghurt, egg yolk, cow’s milk, polyunsaturated and fish liver oils.
• Bacterial synthesis in the gut.^26,5

Types

It has three types: Phylloquinone or K1 and Menaquinone or K2 which are synthesised in the gut. The synthetic form is called Menadione or K3.

Safety

Natural vitamin K is deposited in the body and it is non-toxic. However, the synthetic form may cause vomiting, thrombosis, sweating and chest constriction.

Warning: A word of caution for patients on blood thinning drugs such as Warfarin. They should take vitamin K with extra care and must consult with their doctor prior to commencing it. The doctor may need to increase the dose of Warfarin depending on their blood therapeutic level.

Dosage:
RDA 50-80 mcg per day
EDR 50-100mcg per day

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