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New research finds people with low blood levels of vitamin K are more likely to have reduced lung function and to develop chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Researchers in Copenhagen say eating leafy greens could help prevent this. Spinach, kale, and broccoli are rich in vitamin K and may reduce the risk of asthma and wheezing.
Vitamin K is Important Not Just for the Heart, but for the Lungs as Well
Vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting, which helps wounds heal. But researchers know little about its role in lung health.
The Copenhagen team analyzed data from 4,000 people who underwent lung function tests, gave blood samples, and completed health and lifestyle questionnaires. They found that participants with low markers of vitamin K had poorer lung function test results and were twice as likely to report having COPD. Those participants were also 44% more likely to have asthma and 81% more likely to report wheezing.
One of the study’s authors, Dr. Thorkild Jespersen, says the team found that vitamin K matters not just for blood, heart, and bone health but also for the lungs. He says this is the first large population study to examine the connection between vitamin K and lung health. The findings suggest vitamin K may help keep lungs healthy.
The research team told the Daily Mail the results don’t change current vitamin K intake recommendations. But they say the findings support further studies to determine whether some people might benefit from vitamin K supplements.
The Important Link Between Vitamin K and Lung Diseases
Adults need about 1 microgram of vitamin K per kilogram of body weight each day. So a 65-kg person would need about 65 micrograms daily. Experts say a varied, balanced diet should provide the vitamin K most people need.
Dr. Samantha Walker says the study explores the link between vitamin K and lung diseases like asthma and COPD. She says more research is needed to understand whether vitamin K levels directly affect lung function.
The findings could help clinicians better understand how diet affects people with lung disease. That’s important: lung diseases are the third leading cause of death in the UK, yet only 2% of government research funding goes to lung disease studies that could improve diagnosis, treatment, and management.
