Vitamin K is a fat soluble vitamin that helps your blood clot and keeps your bones healthy.
How Much Vitamin K Do I Need?
Since vitamin K is a fat soluble vitamin, people with healthy digestive systems store some of it in their bodies. The USDA recommends that most people should consume between 2 to 120 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin K each day, which in addition to the amount stored in their bodies, will meet their daily requirements. Since people with cystic fibrosis do not digest or store fats well, they need to consume more. Each person’s needs will vary, but in general, people with cystic fibrosis should consume 300 to 500 mcg of vitamin K each day.
What are the Best Sources of Vitamin K?
Food sources of vitamin K include:
- Leafy green vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli, swiss chard and cabbage
- Soybeans
- Fortified cereals
While it is important to eat foods rich in vitamin K, it is difficult for people with cystic fibrosis to get sufficient amounts from diet alone. Your doctor will probably also prescribe a supplement containing vitamin K to help you meet your daily requirements. If you take pancreatic enzymes, be sure to take them with your vitamin supplements and food to get the most benefit.
Source:
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. 2005. “Vitamin K”. 28 September 2008.
