Vitamin K1 is the primary form of vitamin K in the human diet and is found primarily in green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, and broccoli. It is synthesized in plants through the shikimate pathway and is essential for photosynthesis.
The shikimate pathway (also known as the shikimic acid pathway) is a central biosynthetic pathway in plants, fungi, bacteria, and some protozoa. It is responsible for the synthesis of aromatic amino acids such as phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan, which in turn are precursors for many phytochemicals and vitamins—including vitamin K1 (phylloquinone)
Scientific Background
Vitamin K1 serves as a cofactor for γ-glutamylcarboxylase, an enzyme necessary for the activation of vitamin K-dependent proteins. These proteins are critical for blood clotting, bone metabolism, and vascular health.
Health Benefits of Vitamin K1
Blood Clotting: Vitamin K1 is crucial for the synthesis of clotting factors such as prothrombin (factors II), VII, IX, and X. A deficiency can lead to bleeding tendencies.
Bone Health: Vitamin K1 activates osteocalcin, a protein responsible for binding calcium in the bone matrix. Studies suggest that adequate vitamin K1 intake may improve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.
Cardiovascular Health: Vitamin K1 contributes to the activation of the matrix Gla protein, which prevents arterial calcification. Higher intake of vitamin K1 has been linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
Studies:
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S093947532300501X
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4600246/
- https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminK-HealthProfessional/
Natural Sources of Vitamin K1
Foods high in vitamin K1 include: kale, spinach, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, parsley, kiwis, and avocados.
Vitamin K1 absorption is improved by taking it with fats, as it is a fat-soluble vitamin.
Fun Fact
The letter "K" in vitamin K comes from the German word "Koagulation," which describes blood clotting. This name was chosen because vitamin K was first recognized for its role in blood clotting.
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Disclaimer
For legal reasons, we would like to point out that some of the above statements require further research and studies to scientifically prove them. Therefore, not all statements can currently be accepted by conventional medicine.