Vitamin K
Vitamin K refers to a group of natural derivatives of naphtaquinone, all of which possess anti-haemorrhaging properties, and are used to increase levels of prothrombine in the blood. (also called the coagulation vitamin). Vitamin K is produced in the body by the intestinal flora. It can also be extracted from alfalfa leaves and the flesh of fish, although it is more likely to be synthesized chemically, these days.
Sources of vitamin K:
** Leafy green vegetables, such as cabbage and lettuce.
** Spinach.
** Brussels sprouts
** Broccoli
** Watercress
** Fruit
** Liver
** Fish meal
You need vitamin K for:
** Its vital role in forming prothrombine, and thus in the process of blood coagulation.
** Assists healing in cases where coagulation is difficult for one reason or another.
** Rapid closure of cuts and wounds by rapidly increasing prothrombine levels in the blood;
** With its ability to coagulate blood it is useful as a preventive measure prior to surgery or giving birth.
** Used in creams and ointments, it helps speed up the healing of bruises.
Signs of vitamin K deficiency:
In the case of a normal body without liver, kidney gal bladder or intestinal problems, a deficit of vitamin K should never be a problem. Bear in mind it is a coagulant and so vitamin supplements, containing synthetic vitamin K, should never be taken where these is the slightest danger of clots forming in the blood, other than under the direct supervision of your medical attendant.
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