Vitamin K is classified as a fat-soluble vitamin. This means it is stored in the fatty tissue of the body and the liver. Fat-soluble vitamins differ from those that are water soluble in that they are eliminated from the body at a slower rate. Vitamin K is produced in the intestines by healthy bacteria. It is also found in a variety of different foods. A low level of vitamin K in the body can cause excess bleeding.
Function
Vitamin K is needed in the body to assist blood clotting. Bleeding is stopped in the body naturally through clot formation. According to Oregon State University Linus Pauling Institute, several events, known as the coagulation cascade, have to take place for clot formation. Various proteins involved in the coagulation cascade need vitamin K to work properly. Without enough vitamin K in the body, excessive bleeding or hemorrhaging could occur. Vitamin K is also needed to keep bones strong and healthy.
Supplements
The main form of vitamin K supplement available is vitamin K1. Although supplements may be needed in some cases, it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking vitamin K supplements. According to Colorado State University, safe upper intake limits of vitamin K have not been clearly identified, however, excessive amounts of vitamin K can lead to liver problems and red blood cell breakdown.
Food Sources
Vitamin K is found in a variety of foods including green vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach and dark green lettuce. Certain vegetable oils, such as olive oil, soybean oil and cottonseed oil are also good sources. Other sources of vitamin K include cabbage, cauliflower and kale. Cooking does not appear to destroy the amount of vitamin K in foods.
Deficiency
Since some vitamin K is produced in the intestines by healthy bacteria, deficiencies are not as common as other vitamins, although it could occur. Antibiotics can kill healthy bacteria in the intestines, which will decrease vitamin K production. Certain medical conditions also interfere with vitamin K absorption, such as liver disease, Crohn's disease and cystic fibrosis. Symptoms of a vitamin K deficiency include bleeding gums, blood in the stool or urine and bruising easily.
Considerations
Hemorrhagic disease of the newborn is mainly caused by a vitamin K deficiency, according to Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. Although it is not common, the condition usually occurs the first few days of life. Newborn babies do not have the intestinal bacteria that produce vitamin K. In addition, breast milk does not have high levels of vitamin K. It is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics that newborn babies get a vitamin K injection shortly after birth to prevent bleeding problems.
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