Vitamin K Information

Vitamin K plays an important role in the human body's functioning. A fat-soluble vitamin, it requires fat to be absorbed by the body. Most adults obtain an adequate amount of vitamin K in their diets.

Fun Fact

The "K" in vitamin K stands for the German word "koagulation." It refers to the blood clotting process, which requires vitamin K.

Recommendation

The Food and Nutrition Board at the Institute of Medicine recommends that adults over the age of 19 obtain 90 micrograms of vitamin K per day. For teenagers, between 14 to 18 years old, the recommended amount is 75 micrograms of vitamin K per day.

Deficiency

In adults, a vitamin K deficiency is rare. The body conserves vitamin K, which can be found in a wide variety of foods.

Sources

Vitamin K can be found in soybean oil, broccoli, raw kale, cereals, cauliflower and mayonnaise.

Interactions

If you take a blood thinner like warfarin, vitamin K rich foods may interfere with the medication's function. Consult a healthcare provider about potential interactions.

References

• Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University
• MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia