Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin K is a group of fat-soluble vitamins that play an essential role in blood clotting, bone metabolism and cardiovascular health. The two primary forms of vitamin K are vitamin K1 (phylloquinone), found in green leafy vegetables and vitamin K2 (menaquinone), synthesized by bacteria in the gut and found in fermented foods. Vitamin K deficiency can lead to excessive bleeding and bone fractures, while adequate vitamin K intake may help prevent osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Vitamin K is also being studied for its potential role in cancer prevention and treatment. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common condition characterized by a gradual loss of kidney function over time. CKD affects millions of people worldwide and is associated with a high risk of cardiovascular disease. Arterial calcification and stiffness are among the cardiovascular complications that commonly occur in people with CKD. In this article, we will discuss the pathophysiology of arterial calcification and stiffness in CKD, their clinical implications and the potential role of vitamin K in preventing and treating these conditions.