ANSWER: Which vitamin helps in blood clotting?
ANS:
- Vitamin K is the vitamin that primarily aids in blood clotting.
- Vitamin K exists in two main forms: vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) and vitamin K2 (menaquinone).
- It plays an important role in the production of certain proteins that are involved in the coagulation process.
- These proteins help to form blood clots, which are essential for stopping bleeding and promoting wound healing.
| Vitamin K | Key Information |
| Overview | · Vitamin K is a group of fat-soluble vitamins, including K1 (phylloquinone) and K2 (menaquinones). |
| Functions | · Essential for blood clotting (coagulation) and bone health.
· It also plays a role in regulating calcium metabolism. |
| Absorption and Storage | · Absorbed with dietary fat · Stored in the liver and fatty tissues |
| Food Sources
|
· Leafy green vegetables (spinach, kale)
· Broccoli · Brussels sprouts · Fermented foods · Meat · Cheese |
| Health Benefits | · Blood clotting support
· Prevention of excessive bleeding, · Bone health support, · Potential cardiovascular and cognitive benefits |
| Deficiency Symptoms | · Increased risk of bleeding and impaired blood clotting. |
| Recommended Daily Intake | · Adults: Males: 120 mcg/day; Females: 90 mcg/day (for K1). |
| Interactions and Concerns | · Interacts with certain medications, particularly anticoagulants.
· Vitamin K supplements should be taken with caution if on such medications. |
| Vitamin K1 vs. K2 | · K1 is primarily involved in blood clotting
· K2 is involved in calcium metabolism and bone health. |
| Toxicity | · Rare, as excess vitamin K is generally excreted in urine |
| Risk Groups | · Newborn infants (vitamin K injection given at birth)
· Individuals with malabsorption issues, · Those on long-term antibiotic or with liver disease may be at risk of deficiency. |