VITAMIN K

VITAMIN K
a group of structurally similar, fat-soluble vitamins needed mainly for blood
clotting
“K” from Danish word Koagulation
first recognized in 1929; structurally isolated and analyzed by Danish
biochemist Henrik Dam
has 3 forms: Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone), K2 (menaquinone), K3 (menadione)
VITAMIN K
is necessary for:
• formation of prothrombin and proconvertin (for blood clotting)
• phosphorylation
• photosynthesis
• aids in synthesis of osteocalcin
VITAMIN K
absorbed in the upper intestinal tract with the aid of bile and is
transported to the liver for synthesis of prothrombin and other
clotting factors
stored in very small amounts and considerable quantities are
excreted.
VITAMIN K
factors that interfere with Vit. K absorption:
• any obstruction of bile duct
• failure of liver to secrete bile
• anticoagulants (dicumarol, coumarin)
• rancid fat
• radiation
• x-rays
• aspirin
• air pollution
• ingestion of mineral oil
• antibiotics
VITAMIN K
sources include:
alfalfa
green vegetables
milk
yogurt
liver
egg yolk
fish-liver oil
supplements
VITAMIN K
VITAMIN K
Deficiency Toxicity

bruising, purpura flushing

hypothrombinemia( hemorrhage) sweating
miscarriages chest constrictions
nosebleeds anemia
diarrhea hyperbilirubinemia (jaundice)
VITAMIN K
administered to heart patients who are using anticoagulants
given to patients before and after operations
used with vitamin C to prevent hemorrhages in the eye and gall
bladder
beneficial in reducing blood flow during prolonged menstruation