The plant-based form of vitamin K essential for blood coagulation.
Phylloquinone is vitamin K1, the primary dietary form found in plants that plays a crucial role in blood clotting.
Phylloquinone is the most abundant form of vitamin K in the human diet and is synthesized by plants as part of their photosynthetic process. This fat-soluble nutrient is rapidly absorbed from the intestines and transported to the liver, where it serves as a cofactor for carboxylation reactions that activate clotting factors II, VII, IX, and X. Phylloquinone is also involved in activating bone-related proteins like osteocalcin, which binds calcium and is essential for bone mineralization. The body maintains a tight homeostatic balance of vitamin K function to prevent both excessive clotting and bleeding. Unlike some fat-soluble vitamins, excess phylloquinone does not accumulate to toxic levels as it is relatively rapidly metabolized and excreted. Green vegetables provide abundant quantities, making deficiency rare in populations with adequate vegetable consumption.
Serves as a cofactor for blood clotting factor synthesis and activates bone mineralization proteins.
Aim for at least one serving of dark leafy greens daily to meet the adequate intake of 90 mcg for women and 120 mcg for men. Consistency is more important than quantity—maintain regular intake rather than fluctuating amounts. Minimize sudden dietary changes if taking anticoagulant medications.
Phylloquinone from leafy greens is the main dietary source of vitamin K for blood clotting.
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