Vitamin K1, or phylloquinone, is an essential nutrient that plays important roles in our body. It's a type of fat-soluble vitamin that helps with two main functions:
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Blood Clotting: Vitamin K1 is crucial for the production of proteins needed for blood clotting. When you get injured, these proteins help stop bleeding and promote healing.
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Bone Health: Vitamin K1 also contributes to bone health by supporting the production of a protein called osteocalcin, which is essential for maintaining strong bones.
You can find vitamin K1 in leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale, as well as in some fruits like avocado and kiwi. It's generally best to get your vitamin K1 from a balanced diet rather than supplements, except for those with diagnosed deficiencies.
For people taking blood-thinning medications like warfarin, it's important to be mindful of vitamin K1 intake as it can interfere with the medication's effectiveness.
Measuring vitamin K1 levels in fasting serum is a reliable indicator of dietary intake and status.
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