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Does Vitamin K help with bone health?

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Vitamin K rich foods such as beets, avocado, Brussels sprouts and leafy greens. A headshot of Sue is in the middle with the words Ask a Dietitian.

Vitamin K was first discovered for its blood clotting or coagulation effect. In fact, the “K” stands for the German spelling of “koagulation.”

Not only does vitamin K help you blood clot when you’re bleeding, but it also does help to build strong bones. Research published in the Journal of Osteoporosis and the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research from the found that low vitamin K may be linked to low bone density and a higher risk of hip fractures. Other bone building nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D are also key for bone health.

There are actually 2 forms of Vitamin K.

Vitamin K1 is found mostly in plant foods especially leafy greens like kale, spinach, collards, Swiss chard and beet greens. This form of Vitamin K1 is called phylloquinone.

Vitamin K2 is found in animal foods (like meat, cheese) and also in fermented foods such as natto (fermented soybeans), tempeh, miso and sauerkraut. This form of vitamin K2 is called menaquinone and there are many different subgroups ranging from MK4 to MK13. Vitamin K2 seems to have the greatest impact on bone health.

Adults need 90-120 micrograms of vitamin K every day. You can get this amount from ½ cup of broccoli or 4 Brussels sprouts or ¼ cup of raw kale, a few servings of cheese or natto.

Now what about supplements? If you have osteoporosis or are at risk for osteoporosis, a vitamin K supplement might be helpful. Check with your health care professional or dietitian because vitamin K can interfere with blood thinner medications such as warfarin.

 

Written by: Sue Mah, MHSc, RD, PHEc, FDC – Award-winning Registered Dietitian & Co-Founder, n4nn

November is Osteoporosis Month – Do You Know the 4 Ms for Better Bone Health?

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group-photo-presenters

[Pictured: standing L-R: Dr. Wendy Ward – Canada Research Chair in Bone and Muscle Development, Brock University; Dr. Lora Giangregorio – Kinesiology professor University of Waterloo; seated L-R: Susan Marshall pharmacist, Sue Mah RD, Lucia Weiler RD]

We were thrilled to be among the distinguished speakers at the Better Bone Health Forum last month, organized by Osteoporosis Canada. For better bone health, remember these 4 Ms:

MAXIMIZE bone density by getting enough calcium and bone-building nutrients during childhood and adolescence. Maximum bone density is reached by about age 18 (for girls) and age 20 (for boys). Milk, cheese, yogurt, kefir and fortified soy beverages are some of the best sources of calcium. Calcium is also found in foods such as canned salmon with the bones, leafy green vegetables, calcium-fortified orange juice, nuts, seeds and beans.

MAINTAIN bone density during your adult years to keep bones strong and healthy. Swap out one coffee a day and replace it with a latte. Cook and bake with milk products and calcium-fortified products. Protein, potassium and vitamin D all help your body better absorb calcium. Enjoy a variety of fruits, veggies, whole grains and lean proteins to get a good mix of these vitamins and minerals.

MINIMIZE the bone loss that naturally occurs as we grow older. After menopause, a woman’s risk for osteoporosis rises. Get a bone density check. After the age of 50, consider taking a vitamin D supplement of 400 IU every day. Talk to a dietitian about the need for calcium supplements.

MOVE your body! Try to be active every day. Exercise builds strength in your muscles which can improve your balance and help prevent falls. Strength training or resistance training activities such as push-ups or lifting weights are recommended for building muscle strength. Weight-bearing activities such as walking, running, hiking, dancing, tennis and golf will also keep your muscles and bones strong. It’s never too early or late to take care of your bones!