One Big Health Nut

Vitamin K is an essential vitamin responsible for the functioning of specific proteins involved in blood clotting. Vitamin K also plays a role, although currently unclear, in bone health and cell growth. Vitamin K is not stored in large quantities by your body. And your body’s stock of Vitamin K is rapidly diminished. It is important that you consume a sufficient amount of Vitamin K to adequately provide your body with the amount required to maintain a healthy body.

The role of Vitamin K in clotting blood is precarious. It is necessary to maintain and take in a sufficient amount to allow your body to properly clot your blood. If your body is deficient in Vitamin K you may experience easy bruising and bleeding. This includes nosebleeds, bleeding gums, and blood in your urine. Alternately, if you have a condition that increases your risk of forming clots, it may be necessary for you to limit your Vitamin K intake and to take medications that inhibit your body’s ability to recycle the vitamin.

The Food and Nutrition Board recommends adult males consume 120 mcg daily of Vitamin K. Adult females should consume only 90mcg of Vitamin K each day. The amounts vary based on age and sex. The main source of Vitamin K is called Phylloquinone. It is found in green leafy vegetables and also in some vegetable oils. Among those foods noted as good sources of Vitamin K are Soybean oil, broccoli, kale, parsley, and lettuce. So make sure you eat at least one cup of green leafy vegetables a day and your body should handle the rest.