New scientific analysis suggests that a vitamin deficiency may be linked to some age-related conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, bone fragility, calcification of the arteries and kidneys, and even cancer.
The study, done by researchers at Childrens Hospital Oakland Research Institute, suggests the importance of optimal vitamin K intake to prevent these diseases.
It tested the so-called “triage theory”, which suggests that diseases associated with aging may be unintended consequences of mechanisms developed during evolution to protect against vitamin or mineral shortages.
The analysis, which strongly supports the theory, may have major implications for preventive medicine since modest vitamin deficiencies are common in the U.S. It also suggests a new strategy for establishing optimal vitamin and mineral intake standards, and it provides a research strategy to uncover early biomarkers of chronic disease.
The vitamin is known as the coagulation vitamin since half of the 16 proteins that depend on it are necessary for blood coagulation.
Vitamin K is concentrated in dark green plants such as spinach or Swiss chard. Using nutritional health supplements can ensure optimum intake. 