How Important is Vitamin K?
Vitamin K is Vital for Health
Most people know that without Vitamin K, we would not be able to stop bleeding. It synthesizes co-enzymes that stimulate the proteins associated with clotting our blood. So for people who don’t have enough of this vital vitamin in their systems, nose bleeds and /or excessive bruising are likely. Luckily, most people do get enough vitamin K in their diet to prevent inadequate blood clotting. However…
What many people don’t know, is that vitamin K is also needed for:
- Healthy Bone Formation
- Aids in Calcium Transportation
- Healthy teeth
- Healthy immune system
In fact, vitamin K is now thought to be as important as vitamin D. Furthermore, if either vitamin is deficient, then they will both not function as they should within the body. Obviously, this is a huge discovery, since the absorption of calcium is largely dependent on vitamin D!
There are 2 types of Vitamin K that occurs in nature: Mainly from green plants and from bacteria.
Plants that synthesize high amounts of Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) can be found in the following foods:
- Dark Leafy Greens (Kale, Spinach, Mustard Greens)
- Herbs (Basil, Thyme, Sage, Parsley, Cilantro)
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Asparagus
- Brussel Sprouts
- Watercress
- Plums
- Kiwi Fruit
Vitamin K2 (menaquinone-n) is synthesized from bacteria and can be found in foods such as:
- Fermented Foods (sauerkraut, natto, pickles)
- And even some cheeses
Interestingly, there is another form of natural Vitamin K that is not made from bacteria but is instead produced by animals, as well as, humans. This is known as MK-4. And as with some “B” vitamins such as Vitamin B11 and Vitamin B14, this form of vitamin K “appears” to be important for health, however, science has yet to “determine its function.”
There is one other form of vitamin K – Vitamin K3 (menadione). However, this toxic, synthetic version of vitamin K has been banned for use.
Coumadin (Warfarin) and Vitamin K
For those who are taking Coumadin (Warfarin), or other such pharmaceuticals that are used for “blood thinning”, should use caution when adding vitamin K (via food or supplement) to their diet; due to its blood-clotting properties. For example, many medical doctors warn against eating dark greens, which are high in vitamin K, for this very reason.
Of course, the nutrients found in dark greens are likely exactly what people need when they are sick, or in sub-health.
(Strange there are no warnings given to these patients regarding processed foods loaded with chemicals, which no doubt helped cause their health issues in the first place!)
There are natural options to Coumadin (Warfarin). Vitamin E can be used as a “blood thinner”, and it does not require such massive diet restrictions. It actually helps bring balance back to the body as a whole. Unlike pharmaceuticals, which produces unnatural side effects, including warnings against eating natural nutritious vegetables. (see Vitamin E vs. Coumadin)
Another option is the enzyme serrapeptase. This enzyme basically “eats” away any plaque, and removes blood clots, that impede arteries.
However, it is extremely important to consult with your medical doctor if you decide you would like to gradually switch from pharmaceuticals, such as Coumadin (Warfarin), to a natural option. There are some MD’s who will work with chiropractors and naturopaths in making this transition. It is possible!
Supplementing Vitamin K
The vitamin K dosage is best in lower amounts. Although higher amounts (up to 200 mg) may be necessary in some cases; and would be best monitored under the supervision of a knowledgeable doctor.
Dosages range from 100 mcg – 25 mg can be used very safely; however, 70–80 mg per day of Vitamin K can be achieved by eating foods such as those listed above. For more information click HERE.
Other Related Articles
- Serrapeptase: An Enzyme You Should Not Be Without!
- Vitamin E and Strokes
- Can Vitamin C cause Kidney Stones?
- What “They” Don’t Tell You: Vitamin C and Half-Life
- The “Toxic” Vitamin D?
- Vitamin E vs. Coumadin
is a board-certified Chiropractic Physician and Life Coach who also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Biology, and a minor in Medical Research. She is a life-long athlete who after curing herself 100% naturally from MS and anxiety, became an avid nutrition health researcher/promoter.
She has been featured in many Health magazines and has been a guest on radio talk shows in the USA, Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia. She is the author of Health Freedom Revolution: Exposing the Lies, Deceit and Greed of the Medical Profession, Founder of Online Holistic Health, and a contributing writer for other popular informative health website/blogs.
She is the host of Holistic Health Radio – where she discusses how she recovered her health as well as other hot health topics, and she is also co-founder of Crazy Meets Common Sense! – The Podcast that Makes Sense Out of the Crazy, to Help You Live a More Healthy, Fulfilling and Empowering Life!
