Vitamin K is essential for maintaining a proper blood clotting. The letter K in this vitamin originally came from the German word called ‘Koagulation’.
The most important function of Vitamin K is its ability to attract and to bind the calcium to the proteins present in the body. Proteins present in our bones are called osteocalcin and they do not allow the calcium to stick to this protein if the person is suffering from Vitamin K deficiency. It also plays an important role in vascular health. It is a key coagulant in the body and prevents hemorrhage.

Vitamin K also protects the bones from getting weak and fractured. Another important functions played by Vitamin K includes preventing the calcification of blood vessels and heart valves, proper regulation of inflammatory response, protection against oxidative damage and many others. Some of the excellent sources of Vitamin K include green beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, spinach, mustard greens, carrots, green peas and many others. Vitamin K content can also be increased in various food products through the process of fermentation. Thus one can consume a well balanced diet to fulfill the requirement of Vitamin K and avoid various problems caused due to its deficiency.