Vegetable oils, nuts, vegetables and cereals. Deficiency may occur in premature infants or due to malabsorption. K Essential in the formation of blood clotting proteins. Synthesis by bacteria in the gut. Dark green leafy vegetables, eg cabbage, brussel sprouts and spinach.
Deficiency leads to an increased clotting time.
Ascorbic acid is a water soluble vitamin required for the production of collagen - the protein in connective tissue. It also helps the body absorb iron from plant sources. Severe deficiency leads to scurvy . This disease is characterised by bleeding gums, poor wound healing and damage to bone and other tissues. It is rarely seen in Britain today, although it may occur very occasionally in older adults.