Vitamin K, commonly found in leafy greens, vegetable oils, and grains, is known for its crucial role in blood clotting and wound healing.
However, recent research published in ERJ Open Research points to a new and potentially significant role of vitamin K in lung health.
This study, conducted by Danish researchers from Copenhagen University Hospital and the University of Copenhagen, suggests a correlation between low levels of vitamin K and impaired lung function.
The study involved 4,092 individuals aged 24 to 77 years in Copenhagen. Participants underwent lung function tests (spirometry), provided blood samples, and completed health and lifestyle questionnaires.
The blood tests measured a marker called dp-ucMGP, which indicates low vitamin K levels. Spirometry assessed two key lung function metrics: the forced expiratory volume (FEV1) and the forced vital capacity (FVC).
The results showed that individuals with markers of low vitamin K levels had, on average, lower FEV1 and FVC. Additionally, these individuals were more likely to report having chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or wheezing.
According to Dr. Torkil Jespersen, a researcher involved in the study, these findings open a new avenue for understanding the importance of vitamin K in maintaining lung health.
While the current dietary recommendations for vitamin K remain unchanged, this research supports the need for further investigation into whether vitamin K supplementation could benefit individuals with lung diseases.
The research team is planning a comprehensive clinical trial—the InterVitaminK trial—to compare the effects of vitamin K supplementation against a placebo.
This trial will focus on heart and bone health in the general population, with added emphasis on lung function based on the new findings.
Expert Insights
Dr. Apostolos Bossios from Karolinska Institutet in Sweden, not involved in the study, highlights the potential implications of these findings.
He points out the necessity for more research to understand the link between vitamin K levels and lung function fully and whether increasing vitamin K intake can improve lung health.
Health Recommendations
While further research is underway, the study reinforces the importance of a balanced diet for overall health. Protective measures for lung health, such as avoiding smoking, engaging in regular exercise, and reducing air pollution exposure, remain critical.
Conclusion
This groundbreaking study suggests a novel connection between vitamin K levels and lung function, providing a promising direction for future research.
As scientists delve deeper into this link, the potential for new dietary recommendations or treatments to improve lung health emerges, especially for those suffering from lung diseases.
If you care about nutrition, please read studies about what you need to know about supplements and cancer, and this supplement could reduce coughing, congestion, and sore throat.
For more information about nutrition, please see recent studies that vitamin D can help reduce inflammation, and results showing vitamin K may lower your heart disease risk by a third.
The research findings can be found in ERJ Open Research.
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