Vitamin K Information, Benefits And Foods Rich In Vitamin K

Vitamin K is important for the normal functioning of the liver.



Excessive menstrual flow in women can be reduced with its aid. It is also involved in the energy producing activities of the tissues, particularly those of the nervous system. And it is very essential for the prevention of hemorrhages and intestinal bleeding.

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin.



It is essential for the production of a type of protein called pro-thrombin involved in blood clotting mechanism. Hence it is called anti-hemorrhagic vitamin. Strong acids, alkalis and oxidizing agents can destroy this vitamin.



The other factors that can destroy Vitamin K are air pollution, aspirin, frozen foods, mineral oil and X-rays and radiation.

Vitamin K is absorbed with fat in the diet. Moderate amount of Vitamin K is stored in the liver.

Vitamin K prevents Hemorrhage

Vitamin K Food Sources:

Alfa Alfa, cabbage, cauliflower, soybeans, spinach and yogurt contain Vitamin K in abundance. Lesser amounts are found in oats and wheat. Only a meager amount of Vitamin K is found in animal products. Cows milk is a good source. In healthy intestines vitamin k, is manufactured by bacteria.

Vitamin K Deficiency Symptoms And Traits

Failure to absorb or utilize the Vitamin can lead to a few deficiencies. Antibiotic therapy and low intake of the vitamin, reduces its production by bacteria, and may lead to lower levels of Vitamin K in the body.

Severe hemorrhages maybe caused as a result of blood taking longer to clot due to deficiency of Vitamin K. Life threatening situations may occur due to bleeding and nose bleeds.

• Biliary Obstruction – When absorption of Vitamin K has been obstructed by lack of bile salts, pancreatic secretions or other causes of digestive failures. Vitamin K is administered and it is an essential pre-operative measure. 
• Hemorrhages in Newborns – To prevent hemorrhages some infants require extra administration of Vitamin K.
  
  
  
  This can be given in a fat-soluble or water-soluble form. Infants, whose mother has received anti-coagulant therapy, should be given Vitamin K immediately after birth.

Precautionary Measures

Large doses of Vitamin K over a prolonged period can be toxic. In premature infants there can be anemia and jaundice. In adults it maybe hemorrhages and kidney disorders.