A recent study conducted by the University of Copenhagen has found that individuals with a Vitamin K deficiency are more likely to suffer from lung-related illnesses such as COPD, asthma, and shortness of breath. Vitamin K is essential for bone metabolism, blood clotting, and preventing calcium deposits in blood vessels, according to the German Nutrition Society. The study, which involved 4,092 participants aged between 24 and 77, measured lung function using spirometry and analyzed blood samples for dp-ucMGP, a biomarker for low Vitamin K levels. The results showed that individuals with a Vitamin K deficiency had lower lung function and were more likely to suffer from lung-related illnesses.
The study’s lead researcher, Torkil Jespersen, stated that while Vitamin K’s importance in blood health is well-known, little research has been conducted on its role in lung health. This study is the first of its kind to investigate the relationship between Vitamin K and lung function in a large general population. Jespersen believes that the results suggest that Vitamin K may play a role in maintaining lung health. However, the researchers caution that further studies are needed to determine whether individuals with existing lung conditions could benefit from increased Vitamin K intake.
The study’s findings do not currently support changing the recommended daily intake of Vitamin K. However, the researchers are currently conducting a clinical trial to investigate the effects of Vitamin K supplements on heart and bone health in the general population. The results of this trial may also shed light on whether Vitamin K supplementation could improve lung health. Overall, this study highlights the importance of Vitamin K in maintaining overall health and the need for further research to fully understand its role in lung function.
