What Causes Vitamin K Deficiency?

Introduction To Vitamin K Deficiency

Vitamin K is a vital nutrient that plays a crucial role in blood clotting, bone health, and vascular function. Without this nutrient, the human body is at risk of developing various health conditions. Vitamin K deficiency is a condition where a person does not have enough vitamin K in their body to support its vital functions.

The human body requires enough vitamin K to activate certain proteins that help in blood clotting. Inadequate vitamin K intake could lead to bleeding tendencies, which could be dangerous, especially in infants. Vitamin K is also essential in supporting bone health by enabling bones to absorb calcium, thus reducing the risk of fractures.

Several factors could contribute to vitamin K deficiency. One of the most common factors is an inadequate diet with insufficient intake of vitamin K-rich foods. The food sources that are high in vitamin K include, but not limited to; leafy greens, such as kale and spinach, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and green beans. Another factor that could lead to vitamin K deficiency is an underlying health condition that interferes with nutrient absorption. Medications like antibiotics and blood-thinning medications could deplete the body of vitamin K, leading to its deficiency.

• Insufficient vitamin K intake through diet
• An underlying health condition that affects nutrient absorption
• Medications that deplete the body of vitamin K

In conclusion, vitamin K is an essential nutrient that supports critical body functions. Its deficiency could lead to various health conditions that could have severe consequences. Therefore, individuals must make a conscious effort to consume foods high in vitamin K, and those on medication must consult their physician on the necessity of taking vitamin K supplements.

The Importance Of Vitamin K İn The Body

Vitamin K is an essential nutrient for maintaining vital bodily functions. It plays a crucial role in blood clotting, bone health, and cardiovascular health. Without enough vitamin K, the body is prone to various health problems that can lead to serious consequences. Despite its importance, many people suffer from vitamin K deficiency due to insufficient dietary intake or underlying health conditions.

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that is primarily found in leafy green vegetables, such as spinach and kale, as well as in other foods such as eggs, cheese, and meat. However, not getting enough vitamin K from food sources is not uncommon. This is why vitamin K supplements are available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and injections.

One of the most notable functions of vitamin K is its role in blood clotting. It helps to activate the proteins that stop bleeding when a blood vessel is injured. Without enough vitamin K, the body may experience spontaneous bleeding or prolonged bleeding after an injury. This is why vitamin K deficiency can lead to a condition called vitamin K deficiency bleeding, which is most commonly seen in newborns.

• Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting
• It is found in leafy green vegetables and other foods
• Vitamin K deficiency can lead to bleeding and other health problems

Vitamin K is also important for maintaining bone health. It helps to activate a protein called osteocalcin, which is responsible for binding calcium to the bones. Without enough vitamin K, the body is unable to properly use the calcium it receives, resulting in weakened bones that are prone to fractures.

Finally, vitamin K is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health. It helps to prevent the calcification of arteries, which can lead to heart disease and stroke. Studies have also suggested that vitamin K may have anti-inflammatory properties that can further improve heart health.

In conclusion, vitamin K is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in maintaining many vital bodily functions. Ensuring an adequate intake of vitamin K is essential for overall health. If you are concerned about your vitamin K levels, speak with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

Dietary Factors Leading To Vitamin K Deficiency

Vitamin K deficiency is a health problem that can occur due to various reasons. This can lead to serious health issues such as bleeding and bone fractures. One of the reasons why vitamin K deficiency occurs is due to inadequate nutrition. This means that an individual is not getting enough vitamin K in their diet. In this post, we will discuss the dietary factors that can lead to vitamin K deficiency.

Green Leafy Vegetables

• Green leafy vegetables are a great source of vitamin K.
• Examples of green leafy vegetables that are high in vitamin K include spinach, kale, collard greens, and turnip greens.
• Adding these vegetables to your diet can help prevent vitamin K deficiency.

Fat Absorption

It is important to consume a healthy balance of fats in your diet to ensure proper absorption of vitamin K.

Vegetarian and Vegan Diets

• Vegetarian and vegan diets may lead to vitamin K deficiency if not planned carefully.
• Vitamin K is mainly found in animal products such as meat, eggs, and dairy.
• Plant-based sources of vitamin K include leafy green vegetables and certain oils such as soybean and canola oil.

It is important for individuals following a vegetarian or vegan diet to ensure they are consuming enough vitamin K through plant-based sources.

In conclusion, dietary factors play a significant role in vitamin K deficiency. By incorporating green leafy vegetables, balancing fat intake, and planning carefully on a vegetarian or vegan diet, individuals can prevent vitamin K deficiency and maintain good health.

How Medications Affect Vitamin K Levels

Medications have an important role in treating various conditions, but they can also affect the levels of certain vitamins in the body, including vitamin K. Vitamin K is an essential nutrient that plays a key role in blood clotting and bone health. It is found in many foods, such as green leafy vegetables, dairy products, and meats. However, some medications can interfere with the absorption, metabolism, or activity of vitamin K, leading to deficiency and related health problems.

Warfarin is one of the most commonly prescribed medications that affects vitamin K levels. Warfarin is an anticoagulant that works by inhibiting the activity of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors in the liver. This reduces the risk of blood clots, but also increases the risk of bleeding. Patients taking warfarin need to monitor their vitamin K intake to ensure that they do not consume too much or too little of this nutrient, which can affect the effectiveness and safety of the medication.

• Other medications that affect vitamin K levels include:
• Broad-spectrum antibiotics, which can alter the gut bacteria that produce vitamin K.
• Cholestyramine and orlistat, which can bind to vitamin K and prevent its absorption.
• Anticonvulsants, such as carbamazepine and phenytoin, which can increase the metabolism of vitamin K and reduce its availability.

In addition to medications, certain herbal supplements, such as ginkgo biloba and St. John’s wort, can also interact with vitamin K and affect its levels. Therefore, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the drugs and supplements you are taking before starting any new medication or treatment.

If you are taking a medication that affects vitamin K levels, your healthcare provider may recommend regular monitoring of your vitamin K status and supplementation if necessary. However, taking high-dose vitamin K supplements without medical supervision can also be dangerous, especially if you are taking warfarin. Therefore, it is important to follow your healthcare provider’s advice and maintain a balanced and varied diet that includes sources of vitamin K and other essential nutrients.

In conclusion, medications can affect vitamin K levels in various ways, and this can have implications for your health and the safety and effectiveness of your treatments. Therefore, it is important to discuss your medications and supplements with your healthcare provider and to monitor your vitamin K intake and status as appropriate.

Underlying Health Conditions Contributing To Vitamin K Deficiency

Vitamin K is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in blood clotting, bone metabolism, and cardiovascular health. But did you know that underlying health conditions like liver disease, cystic fibrosis, and inflammatory bowel disease can also contribute to vitamin K deficiency?

Individuals with liver disease, such as cirrhosis, are at a higher risk of developing vitamin K deficiency due to impaired production of clotting factors in the liver. Cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system, can also impair the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin K.

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic conditions that cause inflammation in the digestive tract. People with IBD, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, are at an increased risk of developing vitamin K deficiency due to malabsorption and nutrient loss in the gut.
• In addition, individuals with pancreatic insufficiency may also experience vitamin K deficiency as the pancreas is responsible for secreting enzymes needed for fat digestion and absorption.

It is important for individuals with these underlying health conditions to regularly monitor their vitamin K levels and consult with a healthcare professional if they are experiencing symptoms of deficiency. Treatment for vitamin K deficiency may involve supplements or dietary changes, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

In conclusion, underlying health conditions can contribute to vitamin K deficiency, and it is important for individuals with these conditions to monitor their vitamin K levels and seek professional advice if necessary. By taking steps to manage these health conditions and ensuring adequate vitamin K intake, individuals can maintain optimal health and wellbeing.

Alcoholism And Vitamin K Deficiency

Alcoholism is a chronic disease in which an individual has an excessive and impulsive desire to consume alcohol, often leading to negative physical, social, and professional consequences. One of the potential consequences of excessive alcohol consumption is the development of a deficiency in vitamin K.

Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting, bone metabolism, and cardiovascular health. Individuals who suffer from vitamin K deficiency may experience excessive bleeding, bone fractures, and cardiovascular disease. Alcoholism leads to vitamin K deficiency in several ways, such as decreased intake of vitamin K-rich foods, impaired absorption of vitamins in the intestine, and altered metabolism of the vitamin in the liver.

Additionally, alcoholism can also lead to liver disease, which further exacerbates vitamin K deficiency. Cirrhosis is a common complication of alcohol abuse that leads to liver damage and impairs the liver’s ability to produce clotting factors dependent on vitamin K. In some cases, vitamin K deficiency in alcoholics may lead to a rare condition called vitamin K deficiency bleeding or VKDB.

• VKDB may occur in newborns who are exclusively breastfed by mothers with undiagnosed vitamin K deficiency or who chose to refuse vitamin K prophylaxis during the neonatal period.
• VKDB can also occur in adult patients with poor nutritional status, malabsorption syndromes, and chronic drug use.

The severity of VKDB may range from mild bruising to life-threatening bleeding. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose and treat vitamin K deficiency in alcoholics promptly. Treatment options may include consuming a vitamin K-rich diet or taking vitamin K supplements regularly. In severe cases of vitamin K deficiency, intravenous administration of vitamin K may be necessary to correct the deficiency rapidly.

In conclusion, alcoholism can lead to vitamin K deficiency by multiple pathways, which may cause severe consequences, especially in individuals with underlying health conditions. Therefore, alcoholics should prioritize consuming a healthy diet and seek medical attention if exhibiting symptoms of vitamin K deficiency. Prompt diagnosis and adequate treatment may prevent the development of severe complications of vitamin K deficiency, such as VKDB.

What İs Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding?

Vitamin K is an essential nutrient that is needed for proper clotting of blood. When there is a lack of vitamin K in the body, it can lead to a condition known as vitamin K deficiency bleeding. This condition can be severe and even life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Vitamin K deficiency bleeding is a serious condition that occurs in infants who do not have enough vitamin K in their bodies. This condition can happen in babies who are born prematurely or those who are fed solely on breast milk. Breast milk does not have an adequate amount of vitamin K, which can lead to a deficiency.

There are two types of vitamin K deficiency bleeding that can occur in infants. Early-onset vitamin K deficiency bleeding can happen within the first 24 hours after birth to one week after. Symptoms of this type of bleeding can include bleeding from the umbilical cord or the area where the baby was circumcised. There may also be bleeding from the nose or mouth, or the baby may appear to be pale and have a low blood pressure.

• Early-onset vitamin K deficiency bleeding can cause:
  • Bleeding from the umbilical cord
  • Bleeding from the circumcision site
  • Bleeding from the nose or mouth
  • Pale skin
  • Low blood pressure
• Late-onset vitamin K deficiency bleeding can happen from the age of one week to six months after birth. Symptoms of this type of bleeding can include:
  • Bruising
  • Bleeding from the nose or mouth
  • Blood in urine or stool
  • Irritability or lethargy

Diagnosis of vitamin K deficiency bleeding is usually done through blood tests. Treatment typically involves vitamin K supplements, given either orally or through an injection. In cases where the bleeding is severe, a blood transfusion may be necessary.

Vitamin K deficiency bleeding can be prevented by giving vitamin K supplements to babies soon after birth. This is done by giving a shot of vitamin K to newborns or through oral supplements. Adequate consumption of foods that are high in vitamin K can also help prevent vitamin K deficiency. Foods such as spinach, kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are all good sources of vitamin K.

In conclusion, vitamin K deficiency bleeding is a serious condition that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. It is important to ensure that infants receive adequate amounts of vitamin K supplements soon after birth to prevent this condition from occurring. Eating a diet rich in vitamin K can also help prevent vitamin K deficiency.

Symptoms Of Vitamin K Deficiency

Vitamin K is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in blood clotting, bone metabolism and cardiovascular health. Deficiency of this important vitamin can lead to several health problems. Vitamin K deficiency can be caused by various dietary and health-related factors. Thus, it is crucial to know the symptoms of vitamin K deficiency to prevent any health complications.

Easy bruising and bleeding: One of the most common symptoms of vitamin K deficiency is easy or excessive bruising and bleeding. This occurs because vitamin K is required for the production of proteins that help in blood clotting. If you have a deficiency, these proteins won’t be produced in sufficient amounts, which can increase your risk of bleeding.

Heavy menstrual bleeding: Women who experience heavy menstrual bleeding may be at a higher risk of vitamin K deficiency. This is because the body loses a lot of blood during menstruation, which can lead to a depletion of vitamin K reserves.

• Increased risk of fractures: Vitamin K plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health. Deficiency may lead to an increased risk of fractures, osteoporosis and bone-related problems.
• Dark circles under the eyes: Dark circles under the eyes may indicate that you have a vitamin K deficiency.

Bleeding from the gums and nose: Vitamin K deficiency may lead to bleeding from the gums and nose. This occurs because vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and a deficiency can result in slow or no clotting.

Inability to absorb fat: Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin, which means that it requires fat for absorption. Individuals who are unable to absorb fat may be at a higher risk of vitamin K deficiency.

It is important to note that vitamin K deficiency can be asymptomatic in many cases, especially during the early stages. Therefore, routine check-ups and blood tests are necessary to detect the deficiency in time and treat it before it leads to any adverse health effects.

Diagnosis Of Vitamin K Deficiency

Vitamin K is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in blood clotting and maintaining bone health. Deficiency of this important vitamin can lead to various health problems. Diagnosis of vitamin K deficiency is essential to avoid any serious complications. Blood tests and medical history evaluation are the main methods to diagnose vitamin K deficiency.

Blood tests: Doctors usually recommend a blood test to measure the levels of vitamin K in the blood. The test mainly measures prothrombin time (PT) and International Normalized Ratio (INR). PT measures the time it takes for a blood clot to form while INR is a calculation to standardize the PT results. The normal range for PT and INR may vary depending on the age, health condition, and gender of the person.

• Medical history evaluation: Doctors evaluate the patient’s medical history to identify the potential causes of vitamin K deficiency. Patients with liver diseases or gastrointestinal disorders may suffer from vitamin K deficiency. Prolonged use of antibiotics, anticoagulants, and other medications can also lead to a deficiency of vitamin K.
• Bleeding disorders: Vitamin K deficiency can also cause bleeding disorders such as vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB). VKDB is most commonly seen in infants, especially those who are breastfed. Infants are born with low levels of vitamin K, and breast milk has low vitamin K levels. Therefore, infants are at risk of developing VKDB.

Conclusion: Early diagnosis of vitamin K deficiency can help in avoiding serious health complications. Blood tests and medical history evaluations are the main methods to diagnose vitamin K deficiency. Vitamin K supplements and a diet rich in vitamin K can treat the deficiency. However, self-diagnosis and treatment can be dangerous. It is important to consult with a doctor before taking any supplements or medications to treat vitamin K deficiency.

Treatment Options For Vitamin K Deficiency

Vitamin K deficiency is a condition in which an individual has lower levels of vitamin K in the body. It is a rare condition but can have serious consequences if left untreated. Treatment for vitamin K deficiency depends on the underlying cause of the deficiency. Here are some treatment options for vitamin K deficiency:

1. Increasing Dietary Intake: Eating foods that are high in vitamin K can help increase the levels of vitamin K in the body. Foods such as spinach, broccoli, and kale are excellent sources of vitamin K. Consuming these foods regularly can help prevent vitamin K deficiency.
2. Vitamin K Supplements: Taking vitamin K supplements is another way to increase vitamin K levels in the body. However, it is important to consult a doctor before taking any supplements as an excess of vitamin K can lead to serious health problems.
3. Treating Underlying Conditions: In some cases, underlying health conditions such as liver disease or malabsorption can lead to vitamin K deficiency. Treating these conditions can help improve vitamin K levels in the body.

If an individual is suffering from vitamin K deficiency bleeding, immediate treatment is necessary. Vitamin K injections are typically administered in high doses to help stop bleeding. In some cases, blood transfusions may also be required to replace lost blood.

Preventing vitamin K deficiency is the key to avoiding serious health complications. Eating a healthy, balanced diet that includes foods rich in vitamin K is essential. It is also important to consult a doctor before taking any supplements to avoid any potential side effects or interactions with other medications.

If you suspect that you may be suffering from vitamin K deficiency, it is important to see a doctor. A blood test can confirm whether or not you are deficient in vitamin K. With proper treatment and care, vitamin K deficiency can be easily managed and prevented, ensuring optimal health and wellbeing.

Foods High İn Vitamin K

Vitamin K is essential for the body as it helps in blood clotting, strengthens bones, and boosts cardiovascular health. Vitamin K deficiency may result in various health issues, including bleeding, osteoporosis, and heart diseases. Therefore, it is important to consume foods rich in Vitamin K to maintain the required levels of this nutrient in our bodies.

Here are some of the foods that are high in Vitamin K:

• Leafy green vegetables such as spinach, kale, and collard greens are some of the best sources of Vitamin K. These veggies are not only high in Vitamin K but also provide other important nutrients for overall health.
• Broccoli is another excellent source of Vitamin K. It is also rich in fiber, Vitamin C, and folate, which are necessary for a healthy diet.
• Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of Vitamin K and other important nutrients such as Vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Green beans are not only delicious but also a great addition to a diet rich in Vitamin K. One cup of cooked green beans provides about 14% of the recommended daily intake of Vitamin K.
• Asparagus is a tasty vegetable that is also rich in Vitamin K. It is low in calories and packed with other important nutrients such as fiber, folate, and Vitamin C.

Other foods that are high in Vitamin K include:

Overall, consuming foods high in Vitamin K is important for maintaining a healthy diet and preventing Vitamin K deficiency. Incorporating these foods into your diet can help you maintain the necessary levels of this nutrient in your body and prevent the onset of various health issues.

Vitamin K Supplements: Pros And Cons

Vitamin K is an important nutrient that plays a vital role in blood clotting, bone metabolism, and cardiovascular health. While it’s abundant in many foods, some individuals may not be getting enough Vitamin K from their diet alone. In such cases, taking Vitamin K supplements can be beneficial. However, like any other supplement, Vitamin K supplements come with their own set of pros and cons. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at these pros and cons to help you decide whether or not Vitamin K supplements are the right choice for you.

Pros of Vitamin K Supplements:

• Increased Vitamin K intake: The most obvious benefit of taking Vitamin K supplements is that it helps boost your Vitamin K intake. This is especially beneficial for people who are unable to get enough Vitamin K from their diet due to certain dietary restrictions or health conditions.
• Improved bone health: Studies have shown that Vitamin K plays a significant role in maintaining bone density and reducing the risk of fractures. By taking Vitamin K supplements, you can improve your bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
• Reduced risk of bleeding: Vitamin K is essential for proper blood clotting. It helps activate clotting factors in the body, which helps stop bleeding. By taking Vitamin K supplements, you can reduce the risk of excessive bleeding, especially in people who are taking blood-thinning medications.

Cons of Vitamin K Supplements:

In conclusion, whether or not to take Vitamin K supplements should be based on your individual needs and health status. While there are several benefits associated with taking Vitamin K supplements, there are also some potential risks to be aware of. It’s always a good idea to consult with your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure that it’s safe and appropriate for you.

How To Prevent Vitamin K Deficiency

Vitamin K is a vital nutrient that plays an important role in blood clotting and bone health. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to serious health complications. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent vitamin K deficiency.

One of the most effective ways to prevent vitamin K deficiency is by consuming foods that are rich in this nutrient. Leafy green vegetables such as spinach, kale, and broccoli are excellent sources of vitamin K. Other foods high in vitamin K include avocado, eggs, and dairy products. Incorporating these foods into your diet on a regular basis can help ensure that your body has an adequate supply of this important nutrient.

In addition to eating a healthy diet, taking a vitamin K supplement can also be helpful in preventing deficiency. Supplements are available in both pill and liquid form, and can be found at most health food stores. However, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen, as high doses of vitamin K can interact with certain medications.

• Another way to prevent vitamin K deficiency is by managing your medications carefully. Certain medications, such as blood thinners, can deplete your body’s stores of this nutrient. If you’re taking a medication that affects vitamin K levels, talk to your doctor about monitoring your intake and adjusting your dosage as needed.
• Regular exercise can also be helpful in preventing vitamin K deficiency. Exercise helps improve circulation, which can enhance the delivery of nutrients throughout the body. Additionally, weight-bearing exercises can help strengthen bones, promoting overall bone health.
• Lastly, limiting alcohol intake can also help prevent vitamin K deficiency. Heavy alcohol consumption can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb and utilize vitamin K, leading to a deficiency over time. To maintain optimal vitamin K levels, it’s important to consume alcohol in moderation.

In conclusion, preventing vitamin K deficiency is essential for good health. Eating a diet rich in vitamin K, taking supplements as needed, managing medications carefully, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol intake are all effective strategies for maintaining optimal vitamin K levels. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about your vitamin K intake, and work together to develop a plan that’s right for you.

Vitamin K And Bone Health

Vitamin K is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in several bodily functions. One of the most important functions of vitamin K is regulating blood clotting, but it also contributes to bone and cardiovascular health. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the importance of vitamin K specifically in relation to bone health.

Vitamin K helps to activate various proteins in the body that are involved in bone metabolism. One of these proteins, osteocalcin, is responsible for binding calcium to the bone matrix, ultimately strengthening bones. Without sufficient vitamin K, osteocalcin cannot be activated and therefore cannot bind calcium, leading to weak bones that are more prone to fractures.

• So, what are the best foods to eat to ensure you’re getting enough vitamin K for bone health? Leafy green vegetables such as kale, spinach, and collard greens are excellent sources of vitamin K. One cup of cooked kale contains over 100% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin K.
• Additionally, fermented foods such as sauerkraut and natto also contain high levels of vitamin K. Natto, a Japanese dish made from fermented soybeans, is particularly rich in vitamin K2, which has been shown to be especially beneficial for bone health.

While eating a balanced diet rich in vitamin K is important for maintaining bone health, some individuals may still be at a higher risk of vitamin K deficiency. This may include individuals with gastrointestinal disorders that prevent proper nutrient absorption, individuals taking certain medications that interfere with vitamin K absorption, and individuals with liver disease.

If you’re concerned about your vitamin K intake or have signs of a deficiency, such as frequent bone fractures, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider. They may recommend a supplement or other intervention to ensure you’re getting enough vitamin K to support your bone health.

Vitamin K And Cardiovascular Health

Vitamin K is an essential nutrient that is well-known for playing a key role in blood clotting. However, its importance in cardiovascular health is often overlooked. This fat-soluble vitamin is responsible for directing calcium to the bones, preventing it from accumulating in our arteries and causing blockages.

Studies have shown that individuals with low levels of vitamin K are more likely to experience cardiovascular issues such as atherosclerosis, heart disease, and stroke. A deficiency in this vital nutrient can even lead to a higher risk of death from heart-related issues.

To ensure optimal cardiovascular health, it is important to consume adequate amounts of vitamin K on a regular basis. The recommended daily intake of vitamin K varies depending on age and gender, but it is generally recommended that men consume 120 micrograms per day and women consume 90 micrograms per day.

• Green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, and collard greens are excellent sources of vitamin K.
• Other dietary sources of vitamin K include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, and green beans.

If you are unable to consume enough vitamin K through your diet alone, taking a supplement may be necessary. However, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

In conclusion, vitamin K plays an integral role in maintaining optimal cardiovascular health. Ensuring that we consume enough of this important nutrient through our diet or supplementation can help us prevent a range of cardiovascular issues and live a long and healthy life.