Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin K
For the health condition: Broken Bones

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin K, particularly in the form of vitamin K2 (menaquinone), plays an important role in bone metabolism. Its primary function is to act as a cofactor for the enzyme gamma-glutamyl carboxylase, which is necessary for the carboxylation (activation) of osteocalcin, a protein secreted by osteoblasts that binds calcium in the bone matrix. Several observational and interventional studies have shown that vitamin K deficiency is associated with lower bone mineral density and an increased risk of fractures, especially in elderly populations. Furthermore, Japanese studies have shown that high-dose vitamin K2 supplementation can reduce fracture rates in osteoporotic women.

However, evidence directly supporting the use of vitamin K as a treatment to accelerate healing of broken bones (fracture repair) is limited. Most clinical trials have focused on bone health and fracture prevention rather than healing of existing fractures. The available data suggest that adequate vitamin K status is important for optimal bone health and may help reduce the risk of fractures, but robust, high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically addressing fracture healing are lacking. Some animal studies suggest that vitamin K may enhance bone regeneration, but translation to routine clinical practice for fracture healing is not yet established. Therefore, while there is a scientific rationale and some supporting evidence, it is not strong enough to recommend vitamin K as a primary therapy for treating broken bones.

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