11 Unexpected Ways Your Medications Can Deplete Essential Vitamins

4. Antibiotics and the Vitamin K Connection

Antibiotics are known for their ability to fight bacterial infections, but they can also disrupt the delicate balance of gut microbiota, which plays a role in the synthesis of vitamin K. This vitamin is essential for blood clotting and bone health. Prolonged use of antibiotics can lead to a decrease in vitamin K levels, increasing the risk of bleeding disorders and bone fractures. Understanding this interaction is crucial for individuals on long-term antibiotic therapy, who may need to monitor their vitamin K intake to prevent deficiency.