According to a recent study conducted in partnership with the Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, foods rich in vitamin K have been helpful in the battle, and a deficiency may worsen the symptoms of COVID-19.
This virus is known to cause degradation of elastic fibers in the lungs as well as blood clots, vitamin K has been shown to be helpful in the production of proteins that regulate clotting. As such experts have linked the consumption of foods that are rich in vitamin K to blood vessels, bones, and the lungs.
Including more foods in your diet that are rich in vitamin K may help to reduce the risk of COVID-19 complications, as well as helping to improve your overall health. There are two main forms of this vitamin: K1 (phylloquinone found in plant based foods) and K2 (menaquinone found in fermented in animal products). Many green vegetables are rich in vitamin K such as leafy greens like spinach, kale, broccoli, and cabbage.
Just one cup of spinach can be enough to meet the daily nutritional recommendation value for vitamin K. Soybeans are a rich source of vitamin K2. Fish is another good source of vitamin K. Eggs and dairy are good sources of vitamin K, particularly cheese but non-fermented cheeses like processed cheese contain very low amounts of vitamin K.
It is even suggested that the rare vitamin K may be the missing link between diet and several chronic diseases. Originally vitamin K was known as the essential element of blood coagulation which was dubbed Koagulationsvitamin and shortened to vitamin K.
This vitamin activates proteins that play roles in blood clotting, calcium metabolism and heart health. One of its functions is to regulate calcium deposits to promote calcification of bones and prevent the calcification of blood vessels and the kidneys. It may help to prevent heart disease by preventing calcium from being deposited in the arteries.
As it plays essential roles in bone metabolism, studies suggest that it may help to prevent osteoporosis and fractures. Vitamin K is also speculated to affect dental health, but human studies showing the benefit to dental health are lacking.
The benefits of supplementing vitamin K may be further enhanced when combined with a vitamin D supplement because these vitamins have synergistic effects, though this needs to be studied more in detail.
Although more research is required on vitamin K, which may have life saving implications for some people, it is clear that it plays an essential role in body functions. To maintain good health it is recommended to ensure that you get enough vitamin K through your diet, which will in turn boost your immune system.
