Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that is unjustly little known. After all, it plays a key role in blood clotting and bone metabolism!

There are two different forms: Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) and vitamin K2 (menaquinone). Together with calcium and vitamin D, both contribute to the mineralization of bones. And the function of vitamin K in the blood clotting process is so crucial that it is given to babies immediately after birth and during the first check-ups to reduce the risk of bleeding. Later in life, we usually have better-filled stores because we take in vitamin K with our daily diet.

As plants need vitamin K1 for photosynthesis, relevant amounts of it are mainly found in green-leaved vegetables and herbs. This is also indicated by its second name phylloquinone: phyllos is the Greek word for leaf. Vitamin K2 is mainly found in foods of animal origin such as meat, eggs and cheese. The traditional Japanese dish natto made from fermented soybeans contains a lot of vitamin K2, but it hardly plays a culinary role in this country. Our own intestinal bacteria also produce a certain amount of vitamin K.

As already mentioned, babies are born with vitamin K stores that are low at best. Because even breast milk contains only a small amount of this vital nutrient, it is routinely supplemented in newborns. During growth, a balanced diet with sufficient vitamin K is important so that bleeding does not get out of hand and bones can develop normally. The latter then comes into play again in old age (and for menopausal women), when bone density naturally decreases. Good to know: In addition to malnutrition, chronic stomach and intestinal diseases or the long-term use of certain medications can lead to a "wobbly" supply of vitamin K, for example. Symptoms such as frequent, seemingly causeless bleeding of the gums and bleeding into the skin can provide clues here.

For adults, an average intake of 70 µg of vitamin K per day is considered sensible.

- Vitamin K contributes to the maintenance of normal bones.

- Vitamin K contributes to normal blood clotting.

People who are dependent on anticoagulants must coordinate the intake of vitamin K-containing food supplements with their doctor, as the substances influence each other.