VITAMIN K
(Phylloquinone
or Menaquinone)
“Bone vitamin No.2”.
(“Bone Vitamin No,1 = Vitamin
D). Vitamin K is a fat soluble
vitamin. Proteins found in bone tissue
are dependent on adequate vitamin
K levels. Supplementation helps to
reverse osteoporosis.
Vitamin K is routinely given to newborn
(especially premature) babies to prevent
haemorrhagic disease of the newborn.
Gut bacteria can synthesize vitamin
K. However, newborn infants have a
low vitamin K level due to the lack
of gut bacteria in the first few days
of life.
Functions / Benefits
Promotes growth.
Promotes proper blood clotting (the
‘K’ comes from the German
word ‘Koagulation’).
Accelerates healing of bone fractures.
Increase bone formation in post-menopausal
osteoporotic women.
Reduce urinary calcium excretion.
Involved in bone calcification and
mineralization.
Promotes healthy liver function.
Promotes longevity.
Deficiency Symptoms
Easy bruising.
Blue & black marks on the skin.
Eczema.
Fatigue.
Bleeding and haemorrhaging.
Increased urinary calcium excretion.
Osteoporosis.
Impairment of fat metabolism.
Deficiency is not normally observed.
This is due to the fact that our human
gut synthesizes a major portion of
our vitamin K needs.
Food Sources
Alfalfa. Broccoli. Brussels sprouts.
Cabbage and other leafy green vegetables.
Tomatoes. Cauliflower. Eggs. Fish
liver oil. Green tea. Kelp. Liver.
Meats. Soybeans. Rapeseed. Olive oils.
Whole grains. Yoghurt.
U.S. RDA : 300 mcg
EU RDA: 150mcg
Supplementation up to 300mcg is ok.
Nutrient Destroyers
Mineral oil. Rancid oils. Radiation
/ X-rays. Aspirin. Antibiotics.
>> more info on nutrient
destroyers
Toxicity
Toxic in high doses. Allergic type
of reactions have been reported by
individuals taking more than 500 mcg
daily.
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