Vitamin K May Prevent Arterial Calcification

An animal study led by researchers at Maastricht University shows that vitamin K may prevent calcium buildup in the arteries, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

This research into the benefits of high vitamin K intake may prove especially important for people taking blood thinning medications, such as warfarin, which are known to cause rapid calcification in the arteries. Many patients taking blood thinners aren’t aware of this risk, the researchers said.

If you want to up your vitamin K intake, eat lots of soybean, olive and canola oils, and dark green vegetables such as broccoli, kale, spinach and Brussels sprouts. Or, you may also avail of Vitamin K supplements.

The study has been published in the April 1 issue of the journal Blood.