Common Questions About Vitamin K

What is vitamin K?

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in blood clotting, regulating blood calcium levels, and maintaining bone health. There are two main forms of vitamin K: K1 (phylloquinone), which is found in leafy green vegetables, and K2 (menaquinone), which is found in animal products and fermented foods, as well as synthesized by our microbiome.

What does vitamin K do for the body?

Vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting, which is essential for wound healing and preventing excessive bleeding. It also supports bone health by helping to regulate calcium levels. Additionally, vitamin K may have anti-inflammatory effects.

How much vitamin K do I need?

There are different recommendations for vitamin K intake between countries, and they may also vary based on age and gender. Some guidelines suggest aiming for 1 microgram per kilogram of body weight per day, while others recommend 120 micrograms per day for adult men and 90 micrograms per day for adult women. Pregnant and lactating women may have different recommended intakes. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the right amount for your individual needs.

What are the health benefits of vitamin K?

Vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting, bone metabolism, and cardiovascular health. It helps in the proper binding of calcium to proteins, which is essential for bone strength and integrity.

What are the health risks associated with vitamin K?

Vitamin K (K1 and K2) is generally considered safe when consumed within recommended dietary guidelines, and there is no association with toxicity from dietary intake.

What if your vitamin K is low?

Low levels of vitamin K might be due to malabsorption of fat, since this is a fat-soluble vitamin. This can lead to an increased risk of excessive bleeding, difficulty in forming blood clots, and poor bone health. To increase your vitamin K levels, eat foods rich in this nutrient, such as leafy green vegetables (kale, spinach, and broccoli), as well as other sources like Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and fermented foods like natto. Additionally, consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of low vitamin K levels.

How do vegans get their vitamin K intake?

Vegans can get their vitamin K intake from a variety of plant-based foods such as green leafy vegetables (kale, spinach, Swiss chard), broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and soybeans. Incorporating these foods into their diet can help vegans meet their vitamin K needs.

Vitamin K Daily Requirement Calculator

or
or
Vitamin K Daily Suggested Intake:
90UG

What you eat matters.
Start tracking today.

Foods With High Vitamin K

Filters

Subscribe to our newsletter.

What you eat matters.

Nutrition Articles
Interesting analysis, research and nutrition news.
Feature News
Stay updated as we release new features.