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Author:
Lee Dobbins

We don’t hear about Vitamin K too often, but it is vital for good bone density as well as proper clotting of the blood. This is a fat soluble vitamin which is absorbed into the fat tissues and stored to be used by the body as needed. It is produced in the intestines and it’s production can be greatly helped by the presence of good bacteria whose growth is encouraged by eating yogurt with active cultures. It also needs dietary fat in order to be absorbed, but most people who maintain a healthy diet will be getting plenty of that!

Since vitamin K has a large role in the formation and repair of bones, some claim that eating food rich in this vitamin may help in the fight against osteoporosis. Natural foods that are rich in vitamin K are also rich in other vitamins, minerals and enzymes so adding plenty of them to your diet will be helpful to your overall health. However, if you are currently on anticoagulant drugs such as coumadin, you should consult your physician before taking any supplements or eating foods that are rich in vitamin K as this vitamin helps to clot blood and blocks the actions of these drugs.

Some common foods that are rich in vitamin K include:

• Spinach
• Kale
• Cabbage
• Lettuce
• Broccoli
• Green Beans
• Cucumber
• Peas
• Asparagus
• Apples
• Peaches
• Banana
• Tomato
• Carrot
• Potato
• Oats

While vitamin K is contained in most multi vitamin supplements, it is important to be aware that taking it in conjunction with some other vitamins and foods can cause it to become less effective. This vitamin will become less effective if it is frozen or rancid fats, excessive sugar, asprin or antibiotics are present in the diet. Diets high in vitamin E or calcium as well as nuts, fruits, spices and mints can hinder the absorption of vitamin K.
A vitamin K deficiency is very rare in normal conditions but could include nose bleeds, internal bleeding, bruising easily, anemia and certain birth defects.
Vitamin K Toxicity from normal eating habits is rare but can occur if you go overboard when taking supplements. Symptoms include flushing, and sweats. In severe causes jaundice and anemia can also be a symptom of too much of this vitamin.

About the Author
Lee Dobbins is editor of www.a2z-vitmain-and-herbs.com – Vitamin and Herbs Guide For Natural Healing where you can learn more about vitamins, herbs and health. Find out more about vitamin K

| Article Keywords: Nutrient Basics

A Quick Note From The Publisher... If you like the article above, you may be interested in the following article which is also related to Nutrient Basics... The Wonderful World of Vitamins...Part 2 In Part 1 of this article I discussed the importance of vitamins in our diet and focused primarily on fat-soluable vitamins. Today, I will explore water-soluable vitamins and their importance in our daily diet. Water-soluble vitamins such as Vitamin C, choline, biotin and the seven B vitamins dissolve in water and cannot be stored in the body for extended periods of time. Any excess water-soluable vitamins are excreted in urine. The following are descriptions of water-soluable vitamins: Vitamin C - Look for Vitamin C in broccoli, red peppers, currants, Brussel sprouts, parsley, rose hips, citrus fruits, and strawberries. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects LDL cholesterol from oxidative damage. Aids in wound healing, reduces the severity of the common cold, lowers cataract risk, and helps to lower blood pressure. Aids in repairing damaged cells, bones and teeth. Choline - Also known as "lecithin". Found mainly in soybeans, liver, oatmeal, cabbage, and cauliflower. Small amounts are present in most B-complex and multivitamin supplements. Choline is essential for cell membranes, normal brain function, and to facilitate the movement of fats in and out of our cells. Large consumption of choline results in smelling like a fish, so only a small amount is needed! Biotin - Look for biotin in organ meats, oatmeal, egg yolks, soy, mushrooms, bananas, peanuts, and brewer's yeast. Great for brittle nails and recommended for diabetes. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) - Found in wheat germ, whole wheat, peas, beans, enriched four, fish, peanuts, and meats. Great for canker sores, recommended for diabetes, and reduces seasickness. Helps to keep our nervous system, muscles, and heart working well. It can also relieve tooth...