Saturday, June 9, 2012

Vitamin K

Vitamin K is a fat soluble vitamin that is least known amongst all nutrients. Vitamin K plays a very important role in bone formation and repair. Vitamin K is needed for the production of prothrombin that is necessary for blood clotting. Most of the body’s supply of Vitamin K is produced by the beneficial intestinal bacteria.
Loss of Vitamin K in the body due to:
  • Use of blood thinning drugs (eg warfarin) 
  • Use of antibiotics 
  • Chemotherapy 
  • Gastrointestinal problems 
Effective for:
  • Osteoporosis 
  • Fighting cancer (along with vitamin C) 
  • Alleviates pregnancy related nausea and vomiting (along with vitamin C) 
  • For expectant mothers to prevent bleeding disorder in their newborns (hemorrhagic disease) 
Recommended Dose:
  • Women- 100 mcg daily
Side effects and precautions:
Do not start taking vitamin K if taking blood thinner drugs as this can cause blood clots. Consult the doctor first if taking blood thinner drugs. A dose up to 500 mcg is perfectly safe.

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