The Hidden Hero: Vitamin K and its Remarkable Impact on Human Health
Vitamin K plays a pivotal role in various essential bodily functions. In this blog we'll delve into the world of vitamin K and how it positively affects human health.
The Vitamin K Spectrum
Vitamin K is an essential mineral that has several varieties, including K1 and K2. Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) comes from plants, especially leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale. Vitamin K2 (menaquinone) is naturally created in the intestinal tract and works similarly to K1. These vitamins work together to support various physiological processes.
Blood Clotting and Coagulation
Vitamin K's most renowned role is in blood clotting and coagulation. It's essential for the production of clotting factors that help prevent excessive bleeding when we're injured. Without sufficient vitamin K, our blood would struggle to coagulate, leading to potential haemorrhages.
Bone Health
Emerging research indicates that vitamin K is crucial for bone health. It aids in the activation of osteocalcin, a protein that helps bind calcium to bone mineral, strengthening bone density. Ensuring adequate vitamin K intake may reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
Cardiovascular Health
Vitamin K is associated with cardiovascular health, primarily due to its role in calcium regulation. Adequate vitamin K levels help prevent the unwanted calcification of blood vessels and arteries, which is a risk factor for heart disease.
Brain Function and Cognitive Health
Recent studies suggest a link between vitamin K and cognitive health. Vitamin K may help protect against age-related cognitive decline by supporting brain cell survival and function. Further research is ongoing in this promising area.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Vitamin K exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for overall health. Chronic inflammation is linked to various diseases, and vitamin K may contribute to reducing inflammatory markers in the body.
Healthy Pregnancy
Vitamin K plays a vital role in newborn health. Newborns are typically born with low vitamin K levels, which can lead to a rare but serious bleeding disorder called vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB). To prevent this, infants receive a vitamin K injection shortly after birth.
What foods are rich in vitamin K?
The most common foods with high vitamin K are green leafy vegetables such as kale, collard greens, broccoli, spinach, cabbage, and lettuce. K2 is found in fermented foods like natto, a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans, and certain cheeses.
Supplements are also available for those with dietary restrictions or absorption issues. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine individual needs.
Vitamin K deficiency
Your body needs vitamin K in order to produce the proteins that go to work during the clotting process. If you’re vitamin K deficient, your body doesn’t have enough of these proteins.
Vitamin K deficiency is rare in adults because many of the foods we eat contain adequate amounts of K1, and because the body makes K2 on its own. Plus, the body is good at recycling its existing supply of vitamin K. However, certain conditions and some drugs can interfere with vitamin K absorption and creation, making it possible to become deficient.
Symptoms
In adults, a vitamin K deficiency tends to cause excessive bleeding. Bleeding might come in the form of nosebleeds, heavy periods, blood in the urine, or bleeding from the gums. Bleeding might also occur under the skin, causing severe bruising or petechiae – these are small red spots that appear on the skin, resembling a rash.
The bleeding may also be apparent if someone:
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bruises easily
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gets small blood clots underneath their nails
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bleeds in mucous membranes that line areas inside the body
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produces stool that looks dark black (almost like tar) and contains some blood
Summary
While vitamin K may not enjoy the same spotlight as other vitamins, its significance in human health cannot be overstated. From blood clotting to bone health, cardiovascular support, and potential cognitive benefits, vitamin K is a hidden hero. Recognizing its importance and ensuring an adequate intake empowers us to make informed choices that positively impact our health and well-being throughout life.
How BioMed can help
Claudia, your Biomed Health Care Professional, can determine whether you are deficient in vitamins, minerals and amino acids using computerised screening known as Bioresonance Testing and Quantum Analysis. The reports produced can help Claudia formulate a personalised health care plan which may include supplements, Bioregulatory medicine and/or IV Therapy
