When you think of vitamins, A, B, C, D and E come to mind. But there’s another important vitamin you may not be as familiar with and that’s Vitamin K. Its name comes from the “K” of the German word “Koagulationsvitamin” (coagulate) and is known as the “blood-clotting vitamin.” Learn more about what is Vitamin K, Vitamin K deficiency and Vitamin K benefits.

In This Healthy Insight:

• What is Vitamin K?
• Vitamin K Deficiency
• Vitamin K Benefits

What is Vitamin K?

There are actually several types of Vitamins including K, K1, K2, and K3. K1 is the natural form of Vitamin K found in plants and the main source humans obtain from foods. Vitamin K is found in high quantities in leafy green vegetables like kale, collard greens, turnip greens, romaine lettuce, and raw spinach.

Vitamin K Deficiency

While Vitamin K deficiency is rare, it does occur in individuals who are unable to absorb it due to intestinal issues or are taking certain medications. Signs of a Vitamin K deficiency include poor blood clotting, increased bleeding, easy bruising or blood in the urine.

Vitamin K Benefits