Vitamin K supports neurodevelopment through sphingolipid regulation critical for myelination and neuronal integrity, anti-inflammatory effects via NF-κB pathway inhibition, and improved maternal glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Current prenatal recommendations of vitamin K (70–90 µg/day), based solely on coagulation needs, may be insufficient for optimal brain development. A target of 140 µg/day warrants consideration in future guidelines. Routine assessment of vitamin K status in prenatal care offers a safe and low-cost opportunity to support neurodevelopment and reduce developmental inequities at the population level.
Saad et al. (Tue,) studied this question.