Vitamin K is one of the most rarely mentioned. Meanwhile, this nutrient plays an important role in the human body.
What is vitamin K?
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin consisting of a naphthoquinone ring and an aliphatic side chain. As a structural compound it has the following formula: C31H46O2.
Vitamin K has two natural forms: K1 (phylloquinone) and K2 (menaquinone). In the body, K1 can flow into K2, and vice versa. K1 is found in green vegetables (spinach, kale, leafy greens) as well as some vegetable oils. Our body produces vitamin K2 independently – it is synthesized by bacteria in the intestines. This form of the vitamin is also present in animal products: meat, eggs and dairy products. the daily dose of vitamin K for adults is 120 mcg.
What functions does vitamin K perform?
Both forms of vitamin K are important for human health. They act as mediators in the interaction of calcium with vitamins D2 and D3 (ergocalciferol and cholecalciferol), affecting the transfer and proper distribution of calcium in bone and connective tissue, brain, heart and liver. Vitamin deficiency can provoke the development of osteoporosis and other bone problems.
Vitamin K also stimulates the production of the protein prothrombin, which is necessary for blood clotting. The nutrient influences the formation of a clot that “seals” the wound, and its deficiency can lead to an increased risk of bleeding.
In addition, vitamin K has a beneficial effect on heart health. It prevents calcium deposition in the arteries, which is a prevention of atherosclerosis.
In addition, vitamin K performs the following tasks in the body:
- participates in the formation of transport proteins that transport nutrients between tissues and organs;
- maintains sugar levels;
- participates in anaerobic respiration in case of oxygen starvation;
- blocks the influence of toxins that destroy liver cells;
- supports kidney function, prevents the formation of stones;
- plays the role of a natural pain reliever for muscle spasms and uterine contractions.
Vitamin K is also prescribed to pregnant women to prevent bleeding, the proper formation of bone and muscle tissue in the child, and to restore strength and energy.
What foods contain vitamins for the skin?
Despite the benefits of vitamin K for the body, its excessive consumption with dietary supplements or medications is dangerous to health. An excess of the nutrient increases blood viscosity and increases the risk of blood clots, as well as calcium deposits on the walls of blood vessels, which is dangerous for people with cardiovascular diseases, in particular atherosclerosis.
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