Menadione

Also known as Vitamin K

Vitamin K

Vitamin K consists of substances that are essential for the clotting of blood. It was identified in 1934 by Danish biochemist Henrik Dam . Two types of K vitamins have been isolated: K1 , an oil purified from alfalfa concentrates, and K2 , synthesized by the normal intestinal bacteria. Both can be derived from the synthetic compound menadione (sometimes called vitamin K3 ), a yellow crystalline solid that is as potent in its ability to promote blood clotting as the natural vitamins. The best sources are leafy green vegetables, such as cabbage and spinach, and intestinal bacteria (which produce most of the body's supply of vitamin K). Vitamin K is required for the synthesis in the liver of several blood clotting factors, including prothrombin. Coumarin derivatives, used in medicine to prevent blood coagulation in certain cases, act by antagonizing the action of vitamin K. In the deficiency state an abnormal length of time is needed for the blood to clot, and there may be hemorrhaging in various tissues. Deficiency occurs in hemorrhagic disease of the newborn infant, in liver damage, and in cases where the vitamin is not absorbed properly by the intestine. It can also occur in coumarin therapy or when normal intestinal bacteria are destroyed by extended antibiotic therapy. Vitamin K does not treat hemophilia. Deficiency is rarely of dietary origin. The estimated safe and adequate intake for adults is 70 to 140 micrograms.

What is 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.

How can Vitamin K benefit you?

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.

Precautions about Vitamin K

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

Tips on Choosing a Vitamin K Supplement

* 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.
* The RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance) is currently set at 80 mcg for men and5 mcg for women, and our bodies produce most of the vitamin K we need.

What is Vitamin K?

It is a fat-soluble vitamin, a yellow oil in fact.

Where is it found?

Leafy green vegetables, spinach and parsley especially. It is found in cabbage, broccoli, brussel sprouts, watercress, carrots, avocado, cucumbers, leeks, tomatoes, canola and and olive and soybean oils. Meats and cereals contain this oil too.

Why is it needed?

It is needed for bone formation and clotting. This vitamin is used in the liver and is needed in the production of at least four different proteins if blood is to clot. You would, without Vitamin K, bleed to death from even a small cut.

Vitamin K is also involved in the production of two other proteins improving the calcium status of the body assisting in bone building. This vitamin also decreases the excretion of calcium in the urine too.

What happens if you are deficient?

It is rare to be deficient in Vitamin K but if you were, it would result in uncontrolled bleeding.

Newborn babies are at risk and for this reason they are given Vitamin K injections at birth.

Prolonged clotting of blood and nosebleeds can be a sign of deficiency.

What conditions has it been used to treat?

Primary:

• Coeliac disease
• Premature babies

Secondary:

• Osteoporosis
• Morning sickness

How much is normally taken?

5-80 mg per day which is normally obtained through foods so it is unlikely you would need to supplement with this vitamin. Consult a nutritionally qualified practitioner.

Are there any contraindications or side effects?

A large intake of foods rich in this vitamin or excessive doses of vitamin E supplements can interfere with those who are on anticoagulant drugs.