Our bodies require lots of vitamins and minerals to function optimally. Many of these are obtained from our diet. In some cases, some people are not able to get sufficient amounts of certain vitamins and minerals and this can lead to deficiencies which manifest in different ways.
Vitamin K is a fat soluble vitamin which is needed for formation of clotting factors. Therefore when there is a vitamin K deficiency, the body does not produce the necessary proteins that enable blood to properly clot. This condition is more likely to affect newborns than adults, although many adults consume a diet deficient in vitamin K.
How Vitamin K Functions in the Body
There are two types of vitamin K. Phylloquinone, or vitamin K1, is found in leafy green plants. Menaquinone, or vitamin K2, can be found in certain meats. Vitamin K2 may also be produced by bacteria in your gut or intestinal tract. Vitamin K is important for proper blood clotting and wound healing. When your body lacks the necessary amount of vitamin K, you may be at risk for excessive bleeding.
Risk Factors for Vitamin K Deficiency
You may be at risk for vitamin K deficiency if:
● you do not consume leafy green vegetables such as spinach, kale, or broccoli.
● Your diet is extremely low in fat, as this vitamin requires fat for proper absorption.
● You’re taking certain anti-seizure medications and antibiotics which can trigger vitamin K deficiency.
● You consume extensive amounts of mineral oil because this may affect the ability to properly absorb dietary vitamin K.
● You have celiac disease or cystic fibrosis can place an individual at risk for vitamin K deficiency.
Symptoms of Vitamin K Deficiency
In adults, symptoms of vitamin K deficiency may include:
● excessive bleeding.
● Frequent bruising may occur as blood pools beneath the skin.
● vomiting blood.
● Bloody urine or black, tarry stools
Newborns and Vitamin K Deficiency
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all newborn babies receive a vitamin K Injection. Newborns are typically born with low levels of vitamin K. Babies may be at risk for vitamin K deficiency if they do not receive this shot. Mothers who take certain seizure medications or anticoagulants during pregnancy may give birth to babies deficient in this critical vitamin. Signs of vitamin K deficiency bleeding in newborns include blood in the infant’s stool or urine, bruising, and excessive fussiness.
Diagnosis of Vitamin K Deficiency
If your physician suspects a vitamin K deficiency, he or she may order a blood test to determine your blood’s ability to clot. This test, called a prothrombin time test (PT), measures the amount of time your blood requires for clotting. Prothrombin is a protein necessary for the coagulation of blood.
Treatment of Vitamin K Deficiency
If your doctor determines you are deficient in vitamin K, he or she will likely prescribe an oral vitamin K supplement. Phytonadione is a vitamin K supplement that comes in tablet form. Your physician will take into consideration any other medications you are taking, such as blood thinners, vitamins, and aspirin-containing drugs. Infants are generally treated with vitamin K injections.
Food Sources of Vitamin K
Several foods are rich sources of vitamin K. Leafy greens such as kale, spinach, cabbage, and broccoli are high in vitamin K. Animal sources of vitamin K include beef, liver, pork, and chicken. Prunes, kiwi, berries, and avocado also contains dietary vitamin K.
Vitamin K is a fat soluble vitamin, therefore consuming these foods along with healthy fats improves their absorption.
