Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that is important for blood clotting and bone health. It is also involved in other physiological processes such as wound healing and heart health.
There are two main forms of vitamin K: vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) and vitamin K2 (menaquinone). Vitamin K1 is found in leafy green vegetables such as kale, spinach, and broccoli, while vitamin K2 is found in fermented foods such as cheese and natto.
Vitamin K is essential for the formation of blood clots, which help to prevent excessive bleeding after an injury. It is also important for bone health, as it helps to activate proteins that are involved in bone mineralization.
Deficiency of vitamin K is rare, but can occur in individuals with certain medical conditions or who are taking certain medications that affect vitamin K absorption or production. Symptoms of vitamin K deficiency can include easy bruising, bleeding gums, and nosebleeds.