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The term vitamin K refers to a group of substances (Vitamin K1,
K2 and K3) which contain 2-methyl-1 and 4-naphthoquinone and that
exhibit hemostatic activity. In addition to its hemostatic activity,
vitamin K also plays a role in bone metabolism and blood clotting
and is used by doctors in connection with overdoses of certain drugs
such as warfarin. It is believed that many of vitamin K's effects
come from its ability to increase the body's ability to transport
calcium.
While uncommon, vitamin K deficiency can occur under
certain conditions. These include poor diet, malabsorption syndromes
(cystic fibrosis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, Whipple's
disease, celiac sprue, short bowel syndrome), and liver disease.
Signs of vitamin K deficiency include bruising, epistaxis,
gastrointestinal bleeding, menorrhagia, and hematuria. Severe cases
of vitamin K deficiency can lead to osteoporosis.
There is
some evidence that indicates that supplemental vitamin K may help
when used in connection with celiac disease (when suffering from a
vitamin K deficiency), cystic fibrosis, and
osteoporosis.
Vitamin K supplementation may be beneficial for
the following conditions:
- Vitamin K deficiency
- Hemorrhagic disease in newborns
- Malabsorption syndromes
- Protection against osteoporosis
Vitamin
K Dosage and Administration
The recommended daily
allowance (RDA) for vitamin K is approximately 1 mcg per 2.2 pounds
of body weight. For most adults this is about 70 to 80 mcg per day.
While adequate amount of vitamin K can be obtained by consuming
leafy green vegetables on a regular basis, many men and women
between 18 and 44 years may benefit from supplemental vitamin
K.
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