

Vitamin K plays a vital role in the body’s ability to form blood clots, helping prevent excessive bleeding when injuries occur. It activates proteins required for coagulation — the process where blood changes from a liquid to a gel to seal wounds. Without enough vitamin K, even minor cuts or injuries could result in prolonged bleeding or bruising. There are two main types of vitamin K: K1 (phylloquinone), found in leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale, and K2 (menaquinone), found in fermented foods and produced by gut bacteria. Vitamin K also supports bone health by regulating calcium in the bones and bloodstream. While deficiencies are rare in healthy adults, they can occur in people with malabsorption disorders, liver disease, or those taking blood-thinning medications. Maintaining adequate levels of vitamin K is essential for a balanced and functional clotting system — making it crucial for wound healing and overall circulatory health.