Vitamin K Information

This vitamin K information is provided as a reference or guideline for your good health. Please consult your doctor before changing the amount of vitamin K you currently consume.

Vitamin K is a fat soluble vitamin that plays a major role in blood clotting. In addition, this vitamin helps in forming and repairing bones and has therefore been reputed to help fight osteoporosis. Your body makes vitamin K in the intestines and it’s production can be aided by eating yogurt or cultured milk.

Foods High In Vitamin K

This vitamin is found in liver, leafy greens, asparagus, cheese, bacon, coffee and green tea.

Dosage

The US RDA for Vitamin K is 80 mg per day for males and 70 mg per day for females. This is the minimum amount that you should eat to maintain health.

Side Effects

Vitamin K Toxicity from normal eating habits is rare but can occur if you go overboard when taking supplements. Symptoms include flushing, and sweats. In severe causes jaundice and anemia can also be a symptom of too much of this vitamin.

Symptoms of Vitamin K Deficiency

A deficiency is rare but can result in nosebleeds, bruising easily, anemia and internal bleeding. In newborns it can cause some serious birth defects.

Other Considerations

Vitmain K needs dietary fat to be absorbed – it also helps if you eat yogurt.

Be wary of taking this vitamin or eating foods rich in it if you are on anti-coagulant drugs such as coumadin. Vitamin K blocks the actions of these drugs so you must consult your physician before taking any supplements with this vitamin present.

Do not take vitamin K in later stages of pregnancy as too much can be toxic to the fetus.

This vitamin will become less effective if it is frozen or rancid fats, excessive sugar, asprin or antibiotics are present in the diet. Diets high in vitamin E or calcium as well as nuts, fruits, spices and mints can hinder the absorption of vitamin K.