Vitamin K is an essential nutrient for bone health and blood clotting. The bacteria in your intestines can make this vitamin, and it is also found in many foods -- but almonds do not contain it. However, almonds do provide many other nutrients that are beneficial to your health, and they are a good item to include in a nutritious, balanced diet. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your vitamin K intake.
Function and Deficiency
Vitamin K helps your body make use of calcium and therefore contributes to the strength and health of your bones. It is also a coagulant, without which your blood would not clot, and you could experience such symptoms as excessive bleeding from your nose, gums or other areas. A severe deficiency in this vitamin is rare, and if you do develop one, it will most likely be because of medications you are on, such as long-term antibiotics, or a condition such as liver disease. In this case, your doctor might recommend you take a supplement, as well as eat foods rich in vitamin K.
RDA and Sources
Women over 19 need 90 mcg of vitamin K a day, and men need 120 mcg, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. While almonds might not be a good source of this vitamin, you can get it from asparagus, cabbage, turnip greens, kale, green tea, beef liver and eggs. Do not freeze these foods because this destroys the vitamin K they contain. However, you can cook them, as heat does not have any effect on this vitamin.
Benefits of Almonds
Almonds should not be discarded from your diet due to their lack of vitamin K. They contain many other vitamins, such as riboflavin and vitamin E, as well as minerals such as iron and magnesium. These nuts are also a good source of fiber, and they contain more calcium than any other nut -- about 23 mg per seven almonds. Finally, they are a good source of plant protein, as well as monounsaturated fat, which is healthier for you than other types of fat and might even decrease your cholesterol levels.
Additional Considerations
Always talk to your doctor before altering your diet, or if you are concerned about your vitamin intake. If you are on blood thinners, your doctor might restrict your intake of foods that contain vitamin K because this vitamin can alter the efficacy of your medications. Tell your doctor if you experience any adverse side effects from eating food sources of vitamin K, taking supplements or consuming almonds.
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