Researchers from Copenhagen University Hospital and the University of Copenhagen have uncovered a significant link between vitamin K levels in the blood and lung health.
Published in ERJ Open Research, their study suggests that low levels of vitamin K may be associated with poorer lung function and a higher likelihood of respiratory issues like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and wheezing.
Vitamin K, commonly found in leafy green vegetables, vegetable oils, and cereal grains, is well-known for its role in blood clotting and wound healing. However, its importance in lung health has remained largely unexplored until now.
The Danish research team conducted a comprehensive study involving 4,092 individuals aged 24 to 77 years in Copenhagen.
Participants underwent lung function tests using spirometry, which measures the volume and speed of air breathed in and out.
They also gave blood samples for analysis, including checking levels of a marker indicating low vitamin K (dp-ucMGP), and completed questionnaires about their health and lifestyle.
The findings revealed that people with signs of low vitamin K levels typically had lower lung function, as indicated by reduced forced expiratory volume (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC).
Additionally, these individuals more frequently reported suffering from COPD, asthma, or wheezing.
Dr. Torkil Jespersen, one of the researchers, emphasized that while vitamin K is known for its roles in blood, heart, and bone health, this study is pioneering in linking it to lung health.
This research is the first of its kind in a large general population, suggesting vitamin K’s potential significance in maintaining healthy lungs.
Despite these intriguing findings, the researchers advise that current recommendations for vitamin K intake remain unchanged.
However, they advocate for further research to investigate whether certain groups, particularly those with lung diseases, might benefit from vitamin K supplementation.
A clinical trial (the InterVitaminK trial) is already underway to examine the effects of vitamin K supplementation on heart and bone health in the general population. In light of their new findings, the researchers plan to extend this trial to include lung function analysis.
Dr. Apostolos Bossios from Karolinska Institutet in Sweden, not involved in the study, highlights that while these findings are promising, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between vitamin K and lung function.
He recommends maintaining a healthy, balanced diet to support overall health and taking measures like not smoking, exercising, and reducing air pollution to protect lung health.
In summary, this study offers a new perspective on the role of vitamin K in lung health, opening the door for potential future interventions to improve respiratory conditions.
As research continues, it underscores the importance of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle choices in maintaining overall health, including the health of our lungs.
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The research findings can be found in ERJ Open Research.
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