Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that manufactures clotting factors and prevents osteoporosis. It is absorbed along with fat in the diet. Bile is essential for its absorption. The absorbed vitamin passes through the lymphatic system to the general circulation. Liver stores appreciable amounts of this vitamin.

• Vitamin K is necessary for blood coagulation.
• Ingestion of vitamin K leads to increase in the prothrombin level.
• In Vitamin K deficiency prothrombin level is reduced.

• Inadequate intake of vitamin K by the mother may cause haemorrhagic disease in the new born. The infants have a low prothrombin level and they recover rapidly when vitamin K is administered by injection.
• Inadequate intestinal absorption of vitamin K may result from :
  • lack of bile in the intestine due to defective secretion of bile as in liver disorders.
  • Pyloric or intestinal obstructions and
  • Poor absorption due to diarrhea or dysentery.

• Green leafy vegetables like spinach, cabbage etc.

• Cauliflower

• Soybean

• Wheat germ

• Potatoes

• Milk

• Meat

• Fish