Vitamin K may help prevent bone fractures and osteoporosis by regulating calcium and osteocalcin cells. Adequate intake can be obtained through a diet rich in plant foods, but further research is needed to determine its full role in aging.
The link between vitamin K and the prevention of osteoporosis remains somewhat controversial, however, many researchers believe that vitamin K may help prevent bone fractures in large numbers of people. Since vitamin K and vitamin D work together for proper bone formation, it’s safe to say that vitamin K plays a role in many bone loss disorders. However, more research on vitamin K and osteoporosis prevention is still needed to determine the full role that vitamin K may play in aging the body. Although the use of vitamin K is generally considered safe, most doctors recommend that people with osteoporosis seek additional medical help for any bone problems.
Vitamin K is a macronutrient available in most plant foods, and some of the vitamin K in the body is the result of bacterial fermentation. Studies suggest that prevention of vitamin K and osteoporosis may be possible in women by decreasing excess osteoclast activity. These cell types help break down bone through a process called demineralization, where bone nutrients are removed from the bone to be used for other functions in the body. Although osteoclasts are important for proper bone formation and health, overproduction of these cells can weaken bones and make them more prone to fracture.
Calcium is regulated by both vitamin K and vitamin D, so both are needed in the body in adequate amounts for proper bone dynamics. Without vitamin K, calcium cannot fully move into the bone and help rebuild and strengthen bone structure. This can present problems with the body over time, as decalcification of bone occurs naturally with age. Most research shows that vitamin K is also an important factor in regulating osteocalcin cells, which help make bones denser. Although both vitamin K prevention and osteoporosis have been linked through scientific study, most researchers aim to balance a proper diet with bone-building exercise.
It is suggested that those who receive an adequate amount of vitamin K in their diet are less likely to break their bones and less likely to develop osteoporosis. Some studies contradict this research, suggesting that because bone is stronger, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s denser. Although there is some controversy about this end of vitamin K and osteoporosis research, it is still clear that vitamin K may be helpful for those who are trying to prevent future bone fractures and breaks. It is often recommended that a person on an osteoporosis prevention plan supply their diet with adequate vitamin K from foods such as spinach, kale, and Brussels sprouts.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
