K1 and K2 vitamins What we need to know

Vitamin K belongs to the group of fat-soluble vitamins. It plays an important role in the process of blood clotting, bone metabolism and the functioning of heart muscle tissue.

In fact, vitamin K is the name of a whole class of vitamins that includes vitamins K1 and K2. They perform different functions in the body and are obtained from different food sources. Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) is mainly of plant origin, while K2 (menaquinone) is found in animal and fermented foods. Vitamin K2 stays in our body longer than K1.

the difference K1 and K2  Among the vitamins in the body

The function of all types of K vitamins is the activation of proteins involved in blood clotting, heart muscle function and bone metabolism.

Because the mechanisms of absorption and tissue transport differ, the functions of vitamins K1 and K2 also differ.

It is believed that less than 1% of vitamin K10 in plant foods is absorbed. Because vitamin K2 is found in animal and fermented foods, it is believed to be better absorbed from the gut when combined with dietary fat.

Vitamin K1 is transported to the liver where it is absorbed. Vitamin K2 stays in circulation longer and is better used by the body.

The most important function of K vitamins is participation in blood clotting. It is a cofactor for the following coagulation factors: II, VII, IX and X.

Anticoagulation therapy is sometimes required for blood coagulation disorders - hypercoagulation, cardiovascular diseases, atherosclerosis and many other diseases. In patients who require anticoagulant therapy, it is necessary to monitor the concentration of vitamin K in the blood (due to the procoagulant effects of vitamin K).

K1 Vitamin

Vitamin K1 or phylloquinone belongs to the group of fat-soluble vitamins. Phylloquinone is found in large amounts in green leafy vegetables and some fruits (avocado, kiwi). Vitamin K1 is a necessary cofactor (catalyst) in the process of gamma-carboxylation of protein glutamate (amino acid) residues. Gamma-carboxyglutamic acid obtained by this reaction activates coagulation factors II (prithrombin), VII, IX and X. Other proteins involved in bone metabolism, cell growth, and apoptosis are also affected by gamma-carboxyglutamic acid.

K2 vitamins

In addition to participating in coagulation processes, vitamin K2 reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Studies have shown that it activates protective proteins that prevent calcium deposits from building up in artery walls.

Vitamin K2 carboxylates the protein osteocalcin, which ensures the binding of calcium to bone tissue.

The antioxidant properties of vitamin K2 lead to anti-tumor effects.

vitamin K1 Food sources:

• Cabbage: 1,062 mcg
• Herbs: 1,059 mcg
• Spinach: 889 mcg
• Broccoli: 220 mcg
• Brussels sprouts: 218 mcg

vitamin K2 food sources:

• Pork : 383 mcg
• cheese: 76 mcg
• chicken meat: 60 mcg
• Egg yolk: 32 mcg

K Deficiency of vitamins

True vitamin K deficiency is rare in healthy adults. It can develop in individuals with malnutrition and malabsorption, and sometimes during anticoagulant therapy.

Symptoms of vitamin K deficiency include heavy bleeding.

 For diagnostics and monitoring of vitamin deficiency and associated conditions, "Synevo" We offer:

Health care starts with accurate analyzes

Resources:

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/vitamin-k2#What%20Is%20Vitamin%20K2?

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitamin-k1-vs-k2#TOC_TITLE_HDR_7

https://innovixlabs.com/blogs/insights/vitamin-k-testing

n.manjaparashvili@synevo.ge