Liposoluble vitamin consisting of a series of compounds with a similar chemical structure and anticoagulant properties. Regulates synthesis of prothrombin and other substances required for blood coagulation. A deficiency may cause spontaneous hemorrhage (subcutaneous or within the body), however, it occurs only during illness (surgery, ulcerative colitis, intake of antibiotics) as vitamin K is normally synthesised by the intestinal microflora. It is contained in liver, spinach, cabbage and dried legumes and can be modified by light and air.
RECOMMENDED LEVELS:
A balanced diet usually satisfies the daily requirement of about 1 mg/kg bodyweight per day.
Cf. Calorie.