ISLAMABAD: A recent study published on Thursday revealed that individuals with low levels of Vitamin K in their bloodstream are more prone to experiencing poor lung function and are more likely to report issues such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and wheezing.
Vitamin K is commonly found in leafy green vegetables, vegetable oils, and cereal grains. While its role in aiding blood clotting and wound healing is understood, little is known about its impact on lung health.
The findings, which have been published in the ERJ Open Research journal, do not modify the current guidelines for Vitamin K intake; however, they do underscore the necessity for further research to explore whether certain individuals could benefit from Vitamin K supplements.
“This study is the first of its nature to probe the link between Vitamin K and lung function. Our findings suggest that Vitamin K could indeed contribute to maintaining healthy lung function,” stated Dr. Torkil Jespersen, a researcher involved in the study.
Study conducted by Danish scientists
The research was conducted by a team of Danish scientists from Copenhagen University Hospital and the University of Copenhagen. The study covered 4,092 people aged between 24 and 77, all residents of Copenhagen, as reported by Medical Daily.
Participants underwent lung function assessments, specifically spirometry, and provided blood samples. They also responded to health and lifestyle questionnaires. Blood tests included markers indicating low levels of Vitamin K in the body. Spirometry measures forced expiratory volume (FEV1), indicating the air a person can breathe out in one second, and forced vital capacity (FVC), indicating the total air volume they can inhale in one forced breath.
The study found that individuals with markers indicating low Vitamin K levels showed lower average FEV1 and FVC. Those with low Vitamin K levels were also more prone to report COPD, asthma, or wheezing.
Dr. Jespersen emphasized, “While our findings do not lead to immediate changes in Vitamin K recommendations, they do prompt further investigation into whether specific groups, such as those with lung conditions, might benefit from Vitamin K supplementation.”
