Vitamin K
Introduction
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for blood clotting and bone health. There are two main forms of vitamin K: K1 (phylloquinone) which is found in plants, and K2 (menaquinone) which is produced by bacteria in the gut and also found in some animal products.
Functions
Vitamin K plays a crucial role in the synthesis of certain proteins that are important for blood clotting and bone metabolism. It helps in the formation of prothrombin, a protein required for blood clotting, and also contributes to the regulation of calcium in bones and other tissues.
Sources
Good food sources of vitamin K1 include leafy green vegetables (such as spinach, kale, and broccoli) as well as vegetable oils. Vitamin K2 can be found in fermented foods like cheese and natto, as well as in animal products like egg yolks and liver.
Deficiency and Toxicity
A deficiency in vitamin K can lead to an increased risk of bleeding and impaired bone health. However, toxicity from vitamin K is rare and usually only occurs with high-dose supplementation.
Study Guide
- What are the main forms of vitamin K?
- What are the functions of vitamin K in the body?
- What are some good food sources of vitamin K?
- What are the potential consequences of a deficiency in vitamin K?
