All about Vitamin K

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble nutrient that is mostly found in leafy green vegetables, such as kale. However, unlike many other vitamins, ours bodies are able to manufacture this nutrient by way of bacteria that reside in the intestines.

The primary responsibility of vitamin K is blood clotting. When the body sustains injuries or wounds, this nutrient initiates the mechanism that allows us to stop bleeding and begin healing. It is, therefore, often prescribed before operations to prevent excessive bleeding, and sometimes used to deal with menstrual flow.

More recently, some studies have suggested this nutrient may be important in helping to strengthen bones and counter osteoporosis. It works synergistically with calcium, and helps the body better absorb this vital mineral.

Because Vitamin K aids in blood clotting, anyone on anti-coagulants should check with their doctor before supplementation.

1. Because Vitamin K aids calcium, which in turn needs magnesium and vitamin D to be effective, one should generally look for a comprehensive formula that contains all of these nutrients together, rather than take a stand-alone vitamin K supplement.

2. The RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance) is currently set at 80 mcg for men and 65 mcg for women, and our bodies produce most of the vitamin K we need.

3. Because dietary supplements are unregulated in the U.S., both private and government parties have revealed that consumers only have a 1 in 5 chance of buying a product with the amount of ingredients stated on the label. As such, we advise that you purchase your vitamin K from pharmaceutical GMP compliant facilities, which adhere to the most stringent manufacturing standards for supplements.