- The lungs are essential to the body’s survival, and many factors can influence their ability to function.
- The results of a recent study indicate that people with lower levels of vitamin K may be at a higher risk for diminished lung function and may be more likely to report conditions that impact breathing.
- People can increase their vitamin K levels by consuming more foods rich in vitamin K, such as leafy greens and beef liver, and consulting with professionals for appropriate guidance.
A recent study examined how vitamin K levels in the body may influence lung function and saw that low levels may negatively impact respiratory health, increasing the risk of developing lung conditions.
For the study, the researchers looked at levels of a distinct biomarker as an indicator of vitamin K levels.
The participants with lower vitamin K levels were at a higher risk for poorer lung function measurements. They were also at a higher risk for reporting chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and wheezing.
The study is published in ERJ open research.
One of the primary functions of
The study was a cross-sectional general population study. It included just over 4,000 participants.
To look at vitamin K levels in the body, they used an indirect method.
A specific protein called matrix Gla Protein (MGP) may help stop lung tissue calcification. This protein relies on vitamin K for activation. The inactive form of this protein, dephosphorylated-uncarboxylated MGP (dp-ucMGP), is an indicator of vitamin K levels. Higher levels of it in the body’s plasma indicate a lower level of vitamin K.
The study found lower vitamin K levels were associated with poorer lung function, based on two lung function measurements: forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume. Researchers did not find an…
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