Vitamin K
Vitamin K is a fat soluble vitamin which stored in the liver. It is essential for blood clotting and for building healthy bones and regulating blood calcium levels.
Types of Vitamin K
K1: called ‘Phylloquinone’ is found in dark green leafy vegetables, dairy products and vegetable oils.
K2: called ‘ Menaquinone’ is found in animal products and can also be derived from K1.
Good sources of Vitamin K:
- Broccoli
- Leafy green vegetables
- Meat
- Eggs
- Cheese
- Legumes
Am I getting enough Vitamin K?
It is very rare for individuals to be deficient in vitamin K, as it is very possible to meet your vitamin K needs through a well balanced diet. There are however certain groups who have higher vitamin K requirements, namely:
- Newborns who do not receive a vitamin K injection
- Disease conditions such as cystic fibrosis, short bowel syndrome, celiac disease and ulcerative colitis
- Individuals who have had bariatric ( weight loss) surgery
Signs of a Vitamin K deficiency
A vitamin K deficiency, although rare can manifest some of the following symptoms:
- Bruising
- Easy bleeding
- Osteoporosis
- Bone disorders
Warfarin
It is important for individuals who are taking Warfarin or any blood- thinning medication to limit their vitamin K intake. Vitamin K helps to clot the blood, whilst Warfarin thins blood and prevents clotting. If you are on Warfarin treatment, you should speak to your dietitian about a diet low in vitamin K.