The correct answer is (a). Vitamin K is essential for the production of prothrombin, a protein that is necessary for blood clotting. In the absence of vitamin K, prothrombin levels decrease, which can lead to increased blood clotting time.
Vitamin D is important for bone health, but it does not play a role in blood clotting. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects cells from damage, but it does not play a role in blood clotting. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant, and it is involved in the production of collagen, a protein that is found in blood vessels. However, vitamin C does not play a direct role in blood clotting.
Here are some additional details about vitamin K:
- Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that is found in green leafy vegetables, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and liver.
- Vitamin K is also available as a supplement.
- Vitamin K is necessary for the production of prothrombin, a protein that is necessary for blood clotting.
- In the absence of vitamin K, prothrombin levels decrease, which can lead to increased blood clotting time.
- Vitamin K deficiency can be caused by a number of factors, including poor diet, malabsorption, and certain medications.
- Vitamin K deficiency can lead to bleeding problems, such as easy bruising and nosebleeds.
- Vitamin K deficiency can also lead to problems with blood clotting, such as prolonged bleeding after surgery or injury.
- Vitamin K deficiency is usually treated with vitamin K supplements.
- Vitamin K is an important nutrient that is necessary for blood clotting.