What is Vitamin K3?
Vitamin K3 (Menadione, K3 spark) is a synthetic compound that was used in the past as a dietary supplement. K3 is a man-made, water-soluble compound that was developed in laboratories to perform the same biological functions as natural vitamin K (sources K1 and K2) [6].
Types: Some features of K3 vitamin K Type
- Structure of synthetic chemicals
- Water-soluble properties
- Even more rapidly absorbed than natural forms
- K2 content conversion in the body
- First you design it for commercial supplements
Here’s how K3 compares to other forms of vitamin K:
| Property | Vitamin K1 | Vitamin K2 | Vitamin K3 |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Source |
Natural (plants) |
Natural (bacteria) |
Synthetic |
|
Solubility |
Fat-soluble |
Fat-soluble |
Water-soluble |
|
Absorption |
ContentSlower |
Moderate |
Rapid |
|
Natural occurrence |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
|
Storage |
Fat tissues |
Fat tissues |
Water-based tissues |
Since then, K3 was first developed as a stable and cheaper alternative to natural forms of vitamin K. The fact that it was water-soluble made it particularly appealing for supplement manufacturers, as this allowed the vitamin to easily fit into various formulations. But studies have shown major issues about its protection and facet results, which we can find out in exceptional detail below.
Harmful to Humans
K3 (menadione) carries a high risk to human health and is therefore controversial, particularly at high doses. Here are some things you should know about its dangers:
Primary Health Risks
- Oxidative stress on cells
- Liver toxicity
- Allergic reactions
- Hemolytic anemia in infants
- Disruption of the natural blood clotting process
Risk Factors Comparison
| Table Header | Table Header | Table Header |
|---|---|---|
|
Infants |
High |
Hemolysis, jaundice |
|
Pregnant women |
High |
Developmental risks |
|
Adults |
Moderate |
Liver stress, allergies |
|
Elderly |
Moderate-High |
Drug interactions |
The Safety Dilemma of Supplements
The profile of toxicity has led the FDA to prohibit synthetic vitamin K3 from human dietary supplements. Even small amounts can cause:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Kidney damage
- Excessive sweating
- Skin reactions
- Disrupting function of glutathione
K3 is also more troublesome than the natural kinds (K1 and K2) because of its synthetic nature. Synthetic K3 is metabolized differently by the body, resulting in the production of toxic metabolites. K3 may have potential in some medical applications but its use as a supplement is too dangerous for widespread use.
This potentially life-threatening health risk has shifted more research attention to natural sources of vitamin K that provide the same benefits and without the toxic side effects. Though it has potential anticancer properties, any benefit is outweighed by risks in humans.
Anticancer and Antibacterial Properties of Vitamin K3
Abstract: Vitamin K3 is a fat-soluble vitamin in the K phytomenadione succinylate, which is widely used as an anticoagulant and prevents blood clotting.
Properties that Suggest It May Help Treat Cancer
One of the most widely studied compounds with potential anticancer properties is K3, or menadione. Here are the key findings:
- Causes cancer cell oxidative stress
- Induces apoptosis
- Exhibits synergism when used in conjunction with standard of care therapy
- Specific killing of cancer cells
Antibacterial Mechanisms
| Mechanism | Effect |
|---|---|
|
Cell wall disruption |
Weakens bacterial structure |
|
Metabolic interference |
Disrupts bacterial growth |
|
Oxidative damage |
Creates hostile environment for bacteria |
Research Applications
K3 has potential in the treatment of : — Clinical studies
- Breast cancer cells
- Leukemia
- Liver cancer
- Bacterial infections that are resistant to antibiotics
Although laboratory studies are promising, most research is still in pre-clinical stages. A focus of interest for the scientists is K3’s ability to target cancer cells while theoretically sparing healthy cells as much damage as possible. Such targeted activity renders it an exciting candidate for future therapeutic development.
Next, we will explore the recommended amount of vitamin K you should consume daily and its connection to these benefits.
How much vitamin K are you looking for?
The RDA of Vitamin K based on age and gender is:
- Adults (19+ years):
o Men: 120 micrograms
o Women: 90 micrograms
- Women who are pregnant/lactating: 90 micrograms
- Children aged 4-18 years: 60-75 micrograms
For new-borns (0-12 months): 2-2.5 micrograms
Dietary sources of the natural forms of vitamin K
| Food Source | Vitamin K content (mcg per 100g) |
|---|---|
|
Kale (raw) |
704 |
|
Collard greens |
640 |
|
Spinach |
483 |
|
Brussels sprouts |
177 |
|
Broccoli |
141 |
|
Cabbage |
76 |
Common dietary sources of the two natural forms (K1 and K2) include most foods. Dark green leafy vegetables are the richest source of vitamin K1, while vitamin K2 is found in fermented foods and animal products. Be aware that vitamin K3 (menadione) is synthetic and not normally found in the diet.
To meet vitamin K intake needs:
- 30 servings of dark leafy greens every single day
- Add natto or mature cheese to your diet
- Even though vegetables should probably be a staple when you eat them as wholefood, try to cook them in healthy fats for better absorption
- Keep consumption steady, particularly if you are taking blood thinners
Eating a reasonable diet comprising the above-mentioned vitamin K2 sources could enable most individuals to reach their daily needs without supplementation. Now, looking at vitamin K as a whole—what does it mean to your health?
The Bottom Line
Vit K3, or Menadione (k3 spark and others), is a mixed bag in terms of what it means for health. Although synthetic vitamin K3 has been prohibited for human consumption in some cases due to supposed toxicity, studies are still being conducted to better elucidate its therapeutic potential, including possible use in the treatment of cancer and bacterial infection.
Here are some important pointers about K3 spark:
- Not suitable for human consumption in the US and many other countries
- Has potential in medical studies for certain types of treatment
- Not suitable as a supplement
- Natural vitamin K1and K2 are safer options
Safety Comparison Table
| Form of Vitamin K | Safety Level | Current Status | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|---|
|
K3 (Menadione) |
Low |
Banned for consumption |
Research only |
|
K1 (Phylloquinone) |
High |
Approved |
Daily diet |
|
K2 (Menaquinone) |
High |
Approved |
Supplements |
For those looking to keep vitamin K levels in check, aim for dietary sources of the nutrient—as opposed to sole reliance on supplementation with K1 or K2 from food items such as leafy greens and fermented foods and certain animal products. So, always seek advice from professionals in healthcare before incorporating any vitamin supplementation program.
Read This Next
To learn more about vitamin K and its role in health, check out our other articles on vitamin K1, vitamin K2, food sources, and daily dietary requirements.
Vitamin K3 had been given as a supplement for some time but is now largely avoided due to its significant risk that outweighs any potential benefits. It has been banned in numerous countries to be human consumables due to research revealing high potential for serious side effects, including liver damage and hemolytic anemia [51].
Though some research indicates vitamin K3 might be promising against cancer and bacteria, prioritizing vitamin K intake from natural food sources or through safer supplements like K1 and K2 is advisable. Continue reading or balancing your diet with green leafy plants, vegetables, and fermented foodstuffs. You really should evaluate, together with health professionals, your permission to eat vitamin K safely. put into use for everyone inquiring. If you are interested in learning more about keto gummies or the best weight loss supplements, keep reading.
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Vitamin K3 (Menadione, K3 spark) is a synthetic compound that was used in the past as a dietary supplement. K3 is a man-made, water-soluble compound that was developed in laboratories to perform the same biological functions as natural vitamin K (sources K1 and K2) [6].