Vitamin K supports the body's blood clotting function, prevents weak bones and helps relieve itching associated with liver disease. The amount of vitamin K that your toddler needs changes according to her age. A pediatrician or dietitian can provide guidance about vitamin K requirements during the toddler years and recommend appropriate sources.
Amount
During the toddler years, your child needs about 30 micrograms of vitamin K a day, according to University of Medical Center. As long as your child takes the recommended amount each day, it is rare for him to experience side effects. Due to the lack of adverse effects of vitamin K, there is no established maximum safe amount.
Sources
Sources of vitamin K include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, beef liver, cabbage and asparagus. It is also found in leafy greens such as kale, spinach and collard greens. Vitamin K is also in some multivitamins and can be taken in supplement form. Bacteria in your child's intestines can make vitamin K.
Deficiency
Symptoms of a vitamin K deficiency include hemorrhaging, excessive bleeding and/or bleeding gums. Some antibiotics can kill vitamin K-producing bacteria and lead to a mild deficiency, so make sure to ask your toddler's doctor about a supplement if you think she may not be getting enough from her diet. She may experience decreased appetite and irritability while taking vitamin K supplements, but serious side effects are rare.
Considerations
Vitamin K is sometimes applied to the skin for bruises, scars and burns. MedlinePlus states, however, that there is insufficient evidence for the effectiveness of using vitamin K topically. Be sure to ask your toddler's doctor before using vitamin K to treat any condition internally or externally.
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