Penn Herb Wellness Guide
Vitamin KFind Products
Vitamin K is needed for proper bone formation and blood clotting. In both cases, vitamin K does this by helping the body transport calcium. Vitamin K is used by doctors when treating an overdose of the drug warfarin. Also, doctors prescribe vitamin K to prevent excessive bleeding in people taking warfarin but requiring surgery.
There is promising preliminary evidence that vitamin K2 (not vitamin K1), may improve a group of blood disorders known as myelodysplastic syndromes,1which carry a significantly increased risk of progression to acute myeloid leukemia.
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement,little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Anorexia | Take under medical supervision: 45 mg daily | as Vitamin K2 [2 stars] In people with anorexia, supplementing with vitamin K2 may help prevent osteoporosis. |
Atherosclerosis (Vitamin K1, for coronary calcification ) | 500 mcg per day of vitamin K1 | [2 stars] In a double-blind trial, supplementing with vitamin K1 for three years appeared to slow the rate of progression of coronary artery calcification in seniors. |
Celiac Disease | Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner | [2 stars] The malabsorption that occurs in celiac disease can lead to multiple nutritional deficiencies. Supplementing with vitamin K may correct a deficiency. |
Crohn’s Disease | 80 to 1,000 mcg daily | [2 stars] Taking vitamin K can counteract the deficiency and resulting bone loss that can occur in people with Crohn’s disease. |
Cystic Fibrosis | 5 mg every three days | [2 stars] The fat malabsorption associated with cystic fibrosis often leads to a deficiency of fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin K. Supplementation can help counteract the deficiency. |
Osteoporosis | Amount varies depending on the type of vitamin K being used; consult a healthcare practitioner. | [2 stars] Vitamin K is needed for bone formation, and supplementing with it may be a way to maintain bone mass. |
Morning Sickness | Refer to label instructions |  [1 star] Vitamin K and vitamin C, taken together, may provide relief of morning sickness symptoms for some women. |
Phenylketonuria | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] People with PKU may be deficient in vitamin K, due to the restricted PKU diet. Supplementing with vitamin K may correct a deficiency. |
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.