A major effect of vitamin K on your heart, new study finds

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leafy greens kale spinach

When you think of heart-healthy foods, do you think of vegetables rich in vitamin K?

New research from Edith Cowan University (ECU) suggests that consuming foods rich in vitamin K may reduce the risk of heart disease caused by atherosclerosis by 34%. Atherosclerosis is the condition that describes the buildup of plaque in the walls of the arteries.

In case you need a refreshment, foods high in vitamin K include leafy green vegetables like kale, swiss chard, spinach, and turnip greens. However, the list also includes:

Broccoli

Brussels sprouts

Cauliflower

Cabbage

Eggs

Fish

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What did the study consist of?

After examining data from more than 50,000 people who took part in the Danish Study on Diet, Cancer and Health over a period of 23 years, the researchers explored the impact of foods rich in vitamin K on the reduced risk of atherosclerosis.

People with the highest intakes of vitamin K1, which is mainly found in green leafy vegetables and vegetable oils, were 21% less likely to be hospitalized with heart disease caused by atherosclerosis . Those with higher consumption rates of vitamin K2—> found in eggs, fermented foods, and meat — were 14% less likely to be hospitalized.

© Provided by Eat This, Not That!
egg toast avocado

The key discovery? A higher intake of foods rich in vitamin K led to a lower risk of all types of heart disease caused by atherosclerosis, especially peripheral artery disease at 34%.

“Current dietary guidelines for vitamin K consumption are generally only based on how much vitamin K1 a person should consume to ensure their blood can clot,” said Dr. Nicola Bondonno, lead author of the study. , in a press release. “However, there is growing evidence that vitamin K intakes above current recommendations may offer additional protection against the development of other diseases, such as atherosclerosis.”

RELATED: The Best Foods That Can Help Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease

Although more research is needed, Bondonno adds that the data from this study suggests that regular consumption of foods rich in vitamin K may protect the arteries from calcium build-up.

For more healthy eating tips, be sure to check out Eating This Fruit Daily Lowers Your Risk of Heart Disease, New Study Finds. And to get all the latest food news delivered to your inbox every day, sign up for our newsletter!