Vitamin K is an essential vitamin that regulates blood coagulation within our bodies. Without vitamin K, our blood would not be able to clot at all. Vitamin K also helps maintain our bone health.

Several studies are finding a correlation between vitamin K and its effects on the vascular system, which is known as "bone-vascular crosstalk." In particular, vitamin K2 is responsible for keeping calcium in balance. Researchers are attempting to demonstrate an inverse relationship between low calcium levels in our bones and a buildup of calcium in our arterial system. Calcium accumulation in our blood vessels can lead to strokes, heart attacks, PAD (Peripheral Arterial Disease), and even death.

A PAD patient study showed a link between high vitamin K2 intake and decreasing calcium deposits in the arterial vascular system. This so-called "paradox" lessens the risk of PAD. The results were more pronounced in patients with high blood pressure

Along with vitamin supplements, you can also get vitamin K from the foods you eat. Foods that are is rich in vitamin K include cabbage, kale, spinach, asparagus, broccoli, cheese, ham, lettuce, and ground beef—with green vegetables having the highest concentrations of this essential vitamin.

Another study showed that simply adding one cup of spinach daily not only helps to reduce your blood pressure but decreases your PAD risk as well! You can easily fit a cup of spinach into your daily diet. You can add it to your salad or substitute it for lettuce in your sandwiches or wraps. Try mixing spinach in with your marinara or tacos. Incorporate healthy, vitamin-rich foods into your PAD prevention regime.

As with any new diet or any vitamin supplementation, it is important to first consult your doctor. Certain diseases or medications can have vitamin K precautions or contraindications. Monitor or avoid vitamin K supplements if you have hypoprothrombinemia or thromboembolic disease or if you are on anticoagulant therapy.

To see how vitamin K could benefit your vascular health and other tips to improve PAD symptoms, contact Dr. David Nabi at NewportVascular.com