Vitamin K is a nutrient found in food sources like cabbage, spinach, cauliflower, and other green, leafy vegetables. It can also be found in smaller amounts in a variety of cereals, fish, eggs, and more. Outside of food sources, vitamin K can be created by bacteria in the intestines. Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning the body stores it in its fat tissue and liver. Vitamin K plays an important role in the body, especially in bone health and blood clotting. There are three forms of vitamin K, but only one is available in the U.S. as a supplement, which can be purchased in tablet, liquid, or capsule form.1,2,3
Vitamin K Uses and Health Benefits
Vitamin K is important for the body because it helps create proteins that are important for bone and blood health.4 Some vitamin K benefits include for:
Vitamin K Side Effects and Precautions
Vitamin K is considered safe. In recommended doses, vitamin K side effects are rare. If you do not get enough vitamin K, a deficiency may occur, which can include side effects like bruising and bleeding.However, this is extremely rare since gut bacteria can synthesize vitamin K.2,3,6 Vitamin K deficiencies can occur in infants, individuals taking long-term antibiotics, people with liver disease, and patients with conditions that affect vitamin K absorption in the digestive tract.2, 3, 4
Vitamin K supplements should not be taken by anyone using blood thinning medications or by patients on dialysis.3 Talk to your doctor before taking vitamin K supplements if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Discuss other medications or herbs you’re taking with your doctor to ensure interactions won’t occur.
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