Who needs Vitamin K the most? NEW study on Aortic Calcification and Vitamin K2
Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale, broccoli, and lettuce
Vegetable oils
Some fruits, such as blueberries and figs
Meat, cheese, eggs, and soybeansVitamin K deficiency is very rare. Most people in the United States get enough vitamin K from the foods they eat. Also, bacteria in the colon make some vitamin K that the body can absorb. However, certain groups of people may have trouble getting enough vitamin K:
Newborns who don’t receive an injection of vitamin K at birth
People with conditions (such as cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, ulcerative colitis, and short bowel syndrome) that decrease the amount of vitamin K their body absorbsVitamin K is important for healthy bones. Some research shows that people who eat more vitamin K-rich foods have stronger bones and are less likely to break a hip than those who eat less of these foods. A few studies have found that taking vitamin K supplements improves bone strength and the chances of breaking a bone, but other studies have not. More research is needed to better understand if vitamin K supplements can help improve bone health and reduce osteoporosis risk.
People who have had bariatric (weight loss) surgeryFor general information on vitamin K:Office of Dietary Supplements Health Professional Fact Sheet on Vitamin K
Vitamin K, MedLinePlus®
For more information on food sources of vitamin K:Office of Dietary Supplements Health Professional Fact Sheet on Vitamin K
U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) FoodData Central
USDA Nutrient Lists for vitamin K as either:Phylloquinone, the form of vitamin K found in green leafy vegetables, listed by food or by content, or
Menaquinone, a form of vitamin K found in fermented foods and foods that come from animals, listed by food or by content
For more advice on choosing dietary supplements:Office of Dietary Supplements Frequently Asked Questions: Which brand(s) of dietary supplements should I purchase?
For information about building a healthy dietary pattern:MyPlate
Dietary Guidelines for Americans