Vitamin K is essential for human health, primarily involved in blood clotting, supporting cardiovascular and bone health, improving cognitive function, and skin health. This nutrient also offers several benefits for the lungs.

Vitamin K's anti-inflammatory properties combat chronic inflammation, which can damage the lungs and cause breathing difficulties. People with low vitamin K levels are more likely to experience chronic inflammation in their lungs.

Vitamin K activates Matrix Gla Protein (MGP), which regulates calcium in the body and prevents calcium buildup in soft tissues, including blood vessels and lungs. This is crucial because calcification of lung tissue contributes to lung-related problems.

Vitamin K helps maintain healthy blood vessels. Normal blood vessel function promotes optimal lung function, while impaired blood vessel function can contribute to the development of lung diseases.

Vitamin K activates osteocalcin, a protein primarily associated with bone health. It also plays a role in lung health by influencing lung tissue function and development. Individuals with low vitamin K levels are more susceptible to reduced lung function and breathing difficulties due to narrowed airways, inflammation, and decreased production of substances that keep lung airways open. They are also more prone to wheezing, a whistling sound caused by constricted airways.

Low vitamin K levels are linked to an increased risk of asthma and COPD, chronic lung diseases that can cause respiratory problems.

A balanced diet is key to obtaining sufficient vitamin K. Leafy green vegetables like spinach, broccoli, cabbage, and lettuce, along with fruits like kiwi, blueberries, and raspberries, are rich sources of vitamin K. Adults need approximately 90-120 mcg of vitamin K daily (120 mcg for men and 90 mcg for women), while children require less, with their needs increasing as they grow. Excessive vitamin K intake (usually from high doses of synthetic vitamin K or improper use) can cause side effects such as hemolysis, jaundice, enlarged liver, pallor, shortness of breath, reduced mobility, and edema.

Le Nguyen (According to WebMD, Hindustan Times)