Vitamin E Diet Affects Vitamin K Levels in Rats
Author Information
Author(s): Tovar Alison, Ameho Clement K, Blumberg Jeffrey B, Peterson James W, Smith Donald, Booth Sarah L
Primary Institution: Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University
Hypothesis
What is the effect of different levels of dietary α-tocopherol on vitamin K concentrations in rat tissues?
Conclusion
Supplementing vitamin E in rat diets decreases vitamin K concentrations in several tissues.
Supporting Evidence
- Phylloquinone concentrations were lower in the vitamin E-supplemented group compared to the vitamin E-restricted group.
- Similar results were noted with menaquinone-4 concentrations in response to vitamin E supplementation.
- Vitamin E supplementation in rats decreases vitamin K status in several extrahepatic tissues.
Takeaway
When rats eat a lot of vitamin E, they have less vitamin K in their bodies, which is important for blood health.
Methodology
Male Fischer 344 rats were fed three different diets with varying levels of vitamin E for 12 weeks, and tissue samples were analyzed for vitamin K concentrations.
Limitations
The study used a low intake of vitamin K, which may not reflect normal dietary conditions.
Participant Demographics
Male Fischer 344 rats, 4 weeks old at the start of the study.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p ≤ 0.05
Statistical Significance
p ≤ 0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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