Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that was discovered by Henrik Dam in 1932. It is primarily known for its role in blood clotting and bone health. After being absorbed by fat in the diet, vitamin K can be stored in organs such as the liver and fat tissue for later use. The recommended daily intake of vitamin K for men is 120mcg, and for women, it is 90mcg. Excessive intake of vitamin K1 and K2 can cause various side effects, so it's important to consume it in moderation.
There are two types of vitamin K: phylloquinone vitamin K1, which is primarily found in green leafy vegetables, and menaquinones vitamin K2, which is found in animal foods, fermented dairy products such as cheese, and fermented soybeans. Although vitamin K deficiency is rare, the modern diet that contains more processed foods and fewer green leafy vegetables can lead to a steady decline in vitamin K consumption.
One way to increase your vitamin K intake is to add more green leafy vegetables to your diet. Some excellent sources of vitamin K1 include spinach, kale, collard greens, and broccoli. These foods can be easily incorporated into a variety of dishes, such as salads, soups, and stir-fries.
In addition to its role in blood clotting and bone health, vitamin K may also have a beneficial effect on heart health. Recent studies suggest that vitamin K may help prevent calcification of the arteries, a key risk factor for heart disease. More research is needed to fully understand the relationship between vitamin K and heart health, but these findings highlight the importance of consuming enough vitamin K in your diet.
If you are taking blood-thinning medications such as warfarin, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider before making any changes to your vitamin K intake. Vitamin K can interfere with the effectiveness of these medications, so it's important to maintain a consistent level of vitamin K intake from day to day. Your healthcare provider can help you determine the appropriate level of vitamin K intake for your specific needs.