Phylloquinone (vitamin K)
Chemical Formula: C31H46O2
Other names: Vitamin K1,
2-methyl-3-phytyl-1,4-naphthquinone
Phylloquinone (vitamin K) is needed
for proper bone formation and blood clotting. In both cases, vitamin K does
this by helping the body transport calcium. Vitamin K is used by doctors when
treating an overdose of the drug warfarin. Also, doctors prescribe vitamin K to
prevent excessive bleeding in people taking warfarin but requiring surgery.
Leafy green vegetables, such as spinach, kale, collards, and broccoli, are the
best sources of phylloquinone. The greener the plant, the higher the vitamin K
content. Other significant dietary sources of vitamin K include soybean oil,
olive oil, cottonseed oil, and canola oil.
