Vitamin K

Vitamin K is a nutrient that is found both in nature and made in the body.  It helps the body with blood clotting, or coagulation. Phylloquinone, the natural form of vitamin A found in alfalfa and other foods, was discovered in Denmark. It is needed to produce PROTHROMBIN, which is necessary for blood clotting and bone formation and repair.
Vitamin K is also necessary for the synthesis of osteocalcin, the protein in bones and tissue on which calcium crystallizes which then results in the prevention of osteoporosis and may prevent the calcification in the arteries protecting the vascular system.
The liver uses vitamin K to make clotting factors for the blood which is utilized in the intestines and assists the conversion of glucose into glycogen for storage in the liver supporting healthy liver function. 
A deficiency in this vitamin can cause internal bleeding.
There are 3 forms of vitamin K:

1. K1- (phylloquinone or phytonadione) which comes from plants and makes up your dietary intake
2. K2 – (menaquinones) which are made by the intestinal bacteria and found in butter, chicken, liver, egg yolks and some cheese.
3. (menadione) synthetic man made substance

Antibiotics increase the need for this vitamin from dietary sources because the bacteria in the intestines synthesize this vitamin, and antibiotics kill bacteria which interfere with this process.
Deficiency can be caused by:

• Poor diet- lacking in fibre
• Chron’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• Liver disease which interferes with Vitamin K storage
• Antibiotic use, cholesterol lowering drugs
• Mineral oils
• Aspirin and or blood thinners

Sources of Vitamin K include:

• Asparagus
• Black strap molasses
• Broccoli
• Brussel sprouts
• Cabbage
• Cauliflower
• Chicken
• Dark leafy greens
• Egg yolks
• Safflower oil
• Green tea
• Kelp

But most of this vitamin is synthesized by friendly bacteria normally found in the intestines which results by consuming adequate amounts of fibre as well as consuming animal fats.
Tomorrow we will be discussing Vitamin C, then bioflavonoids and then we will investigate B complex and each B vitamin and uses.
Ta ta for now!
*NOTE this post is for informational purposes only.  It is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any illness.  Always follow the directions on the labels of supplements and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.  
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