These observations build on previously published reports that vitamin K may have an effect on diabetes development via the vitamin K-dependant protein osteocalcin:

By “knocking out” these genes in mice so that they could not function, the animals lacking a functional osteocalcin gene gained fat, showing that osteocalcin helps regulate the cells that produce insulin in the pancreas and release it into the bloodstream.

These osteocalcin deficient mice also became glucose intolerant. Both conditions are considered “pre-diabetic.”

Osteocalcin was also shown to signal fat cells to release a hormone called adiponectin that increases insulin sensitivity (Cell, 2007 Vol. 130, pp. 456-469).

Vitamin K1, also called phylloquinone or phytonadione, (as opposed to Vitamin K2, also termed menaquinones) is found in green leafy vegetables such as lettuce, broccoli and spinach.

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Vitamin K1 May Reduce Development of Insulin Resistance

In a new study published in Cell, osteocalcin appears play a role in glucose metabolism by regulating the cells that produce insulin in the pancreas and release it into the bloodstream. Thus they study shows that osteocalcin may play a role in the development of diabetes.

Since the formation of osteocalcin is dependent on Vitamin K, naturally, manufacturers of Vitamin K supplements are quick to seize this as an opportunity to boost reputation of Vitamin K supplements. To prove that there is a real link between Vitamin K supplementation and diabetes, though, is still a long way to go.

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Vitamin K, Osteocalcin, and Diabetes

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.

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Vitamin K May Prevent Arterial Calcification