Vitamin K deficiency is very rare, according to the the University of Maryland Medical Center. Not only is it available in many food sources, but it is also produced by the body. However, certain medical conditions and medications can result in low levels of vitamin K, which in turn causes a variety of undesirable symptoms.
Causes
A variety of medical conditions can cause low vitamin K levels. Cystic fibrosis patients, for example, are commonly given vitamin K supplements since the condition interferes with vitamin K absorption. Other conditions that may cause a deficiency include gallbladder or biliary disease, Crohn's disease, celiac disease, liver disease and serious burns. Some medications and medical treatments may also interfere with vitamin K production or absorption. These include some antibiotics, which can destroy vitamin K when used for long-term treatment, as can hemodialysis and blood-thinning medications.
Symptoms
Vitamin K is responsible for healthy blood clotting. The liver needs vitamin K in order to produce proteins that help the blood clot properly. Because of this primary function, vitamin K is also known as the clotting vitamin. Because vitamin K promotes healthy clotting, patients with vitamin K deficiency may experience excessive bleeding in many forms: bleeding gums, nosebleeds, heavy menstruation or even blood in the urine or stool. Patients may also be more prone to bruising or bleeding from wounds.
Sources
Patients with a vitamin K deficiency may be given a dietary supplement to ensure that they receive adequate amounts. In addition to supplements, vitamin K is found in a wide variety of dietary sources. These include leafy greens like kale, spinach, broccoli, collard greens, turnip greens and lettuce, as well as asparagus, prunes, avocado and okra. Small amounts of vitamin K are also found in dairy products, soybeans, olive and canola oil and meats. As noted by the American Cancer Society, vitamin K is not destroyed by cooking, so you can obtain it in fresh or cooked foods.
Recommended Intake
Always consult your doctor before taking vitamin K, particularly if you currently take antibiotics, anticonvulsants, anticoagulants, orlistat or bile acid sequestrants. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, adult males age 19 and older need about 120 micrograms of vitamin K each day. Adult women need 90 micrograms. Infants are injected with vitamin K when they are born since their intestines are not yet able to produce vitamin K.
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