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Vitamin K

Vitamin K is a lipophilic (soluble in lipids) vitamin, which is why it should be taken only after a meal with some fats. Different vitamin K substances may behave in markedly different fashions; some are less lipophilic than others, affecting their absorption. It is also an essential vitamin; it is critical in posttranslational modification of proteins that are used in blood coagulation and other life functions like bone metabolism and vascular biology..

Vitamin K is actually a group of about 14 vitamins, 2-methilo-naphthoquinone derivatives. One, vitamin K2, is produced by bacteria in the intestines, who use it for anaerobic respiration; a dietary deficiency may result from things like damage to intestines, removal of intestines, or certain weight-reduction methods that involve blocking off or removing a portion of the intestines. Bile duct obstruction may also affect it.

If a human does not have enough vitamin K in the body, certain proteins essential to proper blood and bone formation are inactive. This deficiency, if severe enough, can cause massive and uncontrolled internal bleeding, the calcification of cartilage, malforming developing bone, and calcium deposits in arterial vessel walls.

Web Resources On Vitamin K

Vitamin K
MedLinePlus: Vitamin Ki
The Specific Functions of Vitamin K

Book Resources On Vitamin K

Vitamin K: A Medical Dictionary by Icon Health Publications
Vitamin K and Vitamin K﷓Dependent Proteins by M. J. Shearer, M. J. Seghatchian

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