Health benefits of Vitamin K
January 22nd 2008 23:55
The major health benefit and primary function of vitamin K is to aid in blood clotting by initiating the process of healing thus slowing and stopping the bleeding from a wound.
The vitamin also plays a vital role in bone metabolism and the absorption of calcium and can help prevent or treat osteoporosis and the loss of bone density. Vitamin K also prevents the hardening of the arteries, which aids in preventing heart disease and heart failure; to reduce risk of bleeding in liver disease, jaundice, malabsorption and treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding.
Vitamin K is found in a variety of dietary sources and they are:
- cabbage
- cauliflower
- cereals
- dairy products
- eggs
- kale
- lettuce
- meats
- organ
- spinach
- wheat bran
Due to the high number of dietary sources, a well and balanced diet will ensure a healthy intake of Vitamin K and because of this, deficiency in this vitamin is very rare and occurs when there is an inability to absorb the vitamin from the intestinal tract. Vitamin K deficiency can also occur after prolonged treatment with oral antibiotics. The recommended daily intake requirement for this vitamin is 90 (µg/day) for both adult males and females.
For individual intake requirements and advice, always consult your health care professional.
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