Why Do We Need Vitamin K?
We need Vitamin K as it helps the blood to clot after a cut or injury. Most of the other vitamins our bodies require are supplied by our diet but vitamin k is different in that about half of the vitamin K we get is made for us by bacteria in the large intestine.
Importantly there are studies that point to it helping to maintain strong bones in the elderly.
Vitamin K Deficiency
Even though our bodies make vitamin K it is possible to suffer a vitamin k deficiency but it is rare, occurring usually when our body cannot properly absorb the vitamin from the intestinal tract.
Vitamin K plays an important role in our blood clotting and prolonged use of antibiotics can destroy gut bacteria, the deficiency can result in easy bruising and a prolonged bleeding time after an injury. Probiotic drinks and yoghurts that contain acidophilus bacteria help to boost levels of gut bacteria, ensuring we make enough vitamin K. If taking a course of antibiotics, it is a good idea to include products like these in your diet as some drugs can inhibit the absorption of this vitamin.
What are Vitamin K Foods?
