Menadione (Vitamin K)

Menadione is a fat-soluble vitamin precursor that is converted into menaquinone in the liver. The primary known function of vitamin K is to assist in the normal clotting of blood, but it may also play a role in normal bone calcificaton. Vitamin K is primarily found in green leafy vegetables, but also in lesser amounts in some dairy products, meat, eggs, and fruits.

For a healthy adult, a normal diet and bacterial synthesis in the bowels usually are sufficient to supply the body with vitamin K and prothrombin. Digestive disturbances may lead to defective absorption of vitamin K and hence to mild disorders in blood clotting.

Recommended Dietary Allowances: Men = 80 mcg; Women = 65 mcg