This fat-soluble vitamin helps prevent internal bleeding and hemorrhages and aids in reducing excessive menstrual flow. These benefits come from the micronutrient's vital role in forming prothrombin, a blood-clotting chemical. Protects in cuts and injuries.

Good for these Symptoms:

• Bruising
• Nosebleeds
• Excessive bleeding when cut or scratched
• Helps treat such life-threatening conditions as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis

Signs of Deficiency: Defective blood clotting-occasionally seen in newborns, rare in others

Sources:

• Leafy green vegetables
• Cauliflower
• Peas
• Yogurt
• Kelp
• Fish-liver oils
• Safflower and soybean oils
• Egg yolk
• Cabbage
• Meat
• Intestinal bacteria produce vitamin K from foods

RDA: None

Optimal Level: From dietary sources

Drug Interactions: Oral anticoagulants (K reduces these drugs' effects)