It is found in dark green leafy vegetables or in certain products of animal origin: vitamin K plays an essential role in the proper functioning of the body.

It is used in particular for good bone health and blood clotting. We will explain everything to you.

Vitamin K: what is it for?

According to ANSES: « Vitamin K includes phylloquinone (vitamin K1), menaquinones (vitamin K2) and synthetic menadione (vitamin K3). Phylloquinone and menaquinones are fat-soluble compounds.”

Vitamin K plays a role in the activation of proteins used for coagulation sanguine. It also serves bone metabolism. Thus, a deficiency in vitamin K1 leads to clotting disorders. However, cases of dietary deficiency are rare but can cause lipid absorption disorders.

Vitamin K1 is mainly found in dark green leafy vegetables like kale, spinach, salads and certain vegetable oils. Vitamin K2 is synthesized by products of animal origin such as beef, poultry, egg yolk, fermented dairy products, etc.

Prevention of cardiovascular diseases and good bone health: the benefits of vitamin K

Thus, vitamin K is an essential micronutrient for the proper functioning of the body. It thus has several important roles at the metabolic level.as :

  • La coagulation sanguine : it allows the synthesis and activation of factors responsible for coagulation. This helps prevent bleeding;
  • Bone health : it allows the strength of the bone by improving its calcification;
  • Cell growth : cardiovascular prevention.

Vitamin K deficiencies are very rare in adults. However, these shortages can exist in the newborn. They can cause bone growth abnormalities.

Generally, “Vitamin K requirements are extremely low because the body’s mechanism for recycling vitamin K is very efficient. These requirements are estimated to be 1 µg per kilo of body weight per day” says dietitian Nicolas Aubineau.

Florine Cauchie

Health journalist

May 15, 2024, at 2:26 p.m.

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