Vitamin K: Here’s Why You Need This Nutrient To Remain Healthy Lifelong

We know each nutrient has a significant role to play in improving the overall health of the body. One of the most underrated nutrients, vitamin K, is also vital to stay fit and fine. It belongs to a group of fat-soluble vitamins, among which, vitamin K1 and K2 are said to be the most imperative. Commonly known as blood clotting vitamin, this one is really important to be consumed by older adults to keep risks like mobility limitation (upper or lower limb loss or disability, manual dexterity, and disability) at bay.

“Because of our growing population of older people, it's important for us to understand the variety of risk factors for disability. Low vitamin K status has been associated with the onset of chronic diseases (heart disease, cancer, and diabetes) that lead to disability,” said Kyla Shea, nutrition scientist and corresponding author of the study published in the journal ‘Gerontology: Medical Sciences’. Found abundantly in green leafy vegetables, brussels sprouts, broccoli, fish, liver, meat, eggs, and cereals, know the reasons to increase your consumption of vitamin K.

Great For Bone Health & Wound Healing

Not only bones provide structure but also protect the important organs of the body from any external damage. Its strength is as imperative as the well-being of any other body parts. Most of you believe that only calcium has a role to play when it comes to bone health. But, this nutrient also makes different types of proteins, which is vital for strong healthy bones and to prevent any kind of blood clotting. However, it needs the support of other nutrients like vitamin D to ensure that calcium find its way to the bones for proper development.

Don't Miss: 5 Fruits For Healthy Hair Growth And How To Use Them

Prevention Of Cardiovascular Disease

Diseases related to heart and blood vessels are one of the most common ones from which people around the globe suffer. In the absence of vitamin K, nutrients such as calcium get deposited in artery walls and further leads to cardiovascular diseases. This global concern can be handled by consuming food items rich in vitamin K. There are also supplements available that can be taken after consulting a cardiologist.

Healthy Nervous System

Brain health must never be neglected as it is the processing unit of the body. Vitamin K is present in large concentrations in brain tissue. In order to avoid any kind of hardening of soft tissues, this nutrient is necessary. It will not only prevent diseases related to the brain in old age but will also maintain the health of brain cell membranes.

Don't Miss: Why You Should Drink Atleast 2 Tsp Of Amla Juice Everyday

Diabetes Prevention

Reportedly, vitamin K has been found beneficial in positively influencing blood sugar levels. This could help many and prevent diabetes. One of the most common types of diabetes is type 2 diabetes and diet rich in vitamin K could help in reducing the risk of developing it. Especially, food packed with vitamin K1 can moderate insulin resistance in older adults.

Vital For Newborn Babies

Not only older adults, but vitamin K is also vital for newborn babies. It is important to give them vitamin K after they are born because this nutrient does not cross the placenta to reach the foetus. Since, breast milk is also low in vitamin K, the newborn babies must routinely be given vitamin K injections. This will protect them from a condition called hemorrhagic disease, wherein severe bleeding can sometimes lead to brain damage, as per health reports.

If you liked this article, do comment on our Facebook page. Stay tuned to HerZindagi to read articles on health and fitness!