Rumour: Vitamin K deficiency is linked to cardiovascular disease.
Truth: This is true.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by restrictions in the airway, often making it difficult for individuals to breathe. In addition to respiratory problems, COPD can affect the heart, leading to the onset of coronary artery disease. One of the common treatments COPD patients undergo is the consumption of anticoagulation medication, which often causes Vitamin K deficiency. Studies question whether these anticoagulation medications actually worsen the effects of COPD.
An observational study published in Respiratory Research examined whether vitamin K deficiency was linked to pathogenic mechanisms of COPD. Findings indicate high consumption of cheese was linked to better lung function due to its high levels of vitamin K2. As such, there is sufficient evidence to believe that vitamin K deficiency is linked to elastin degradation and elastin calcification in the cardiovascular system. To read more about anticoagulation medication safety and vitamin K deficiency, click here.