In 1929, Danish biologist Henrik Dam first discovered a substance with blood coagulation function while studying the mechanism of cholesterol synthesis in hens. In 1934, it was named "Vitamin K".
In the 1930s, American Doisy isolated vitamin K and determined its chemical formula and structure.
Vitamin K is a yellow oily substance, including naturally occurring fat-soluble vitamins K1 and K2, as well as synthetic water-soluble vitamins K3 and K4. Among them, the most important are vitamin K1 (phylloquinone, PK) and K2 (menaquinone, MK-n).
The absorption of vitamin K₁ and K₂, like other fat-soluble vitamins, requires the participation of bile and pancreatic juice and is transported by the lymphatic system. Its absorption efficiency is between 10% and 80%, depending on the source of vitamin K and the dosage form of vitamin K taken.
What is the deficiency of phylloquinone?
Phylloquinone, or vitamin K1, is needed for blood coagulation and bone health. A phylloquinone deficit can lead to a number of health issues:
1. Bleeding and bruising: The most common and significant complication is an increased risk of bleeding and bruising caused by poor blood coagulation. This can cause easy bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, and excessive bleeding from cuts.
2. Bone Weakness: Vitamin K1 is essential for bone health. A deficit can cause weakening bones and raise the risk of fractures. It is involved in the production of proteins required for bone growth and maintenance.
3. Long-term deficiency may contribute to osteoporosis, which is characterized by brittle and fragile bones.
4. Cardiovascular Issues: New research reveals that vitamin K1 deficiency may be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, as it regulates calcium deposition in the arteries.
5. Poor Wound Healing: A lack of vitamin K1 might hinder the body's capacity to heal wounds properly.
Neonates are a high-risk group for vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB). Preventive vitamin K supplementation immediately after birth can significantly reduce the incidence of VKDB.
Studies have confirmed that a preventive program of oral vitamin K1 1 mg per week for 3 months can significantly reduce the incidence of late-onset VKDB and has good effectiveness and safety.
According to the latest Chinese Dietary Reference Intake, the recommended daily intake (AI) of vitamin K for adults is 80 micrograms (µg), which is applicable to adults aged 18 and above, including pregnant women.
Reference
[1]. Cockayne S, Adamson J, Lanham-New S, et al. Vitamin K and the prevention of fractures: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials[J]. Archives of Internal Medicine, 2006, 166(12): 1256-1261.
