Maternal phylloquinone intake and early neurodevelopment: implications for prenatal nutrition.

Saad, Khaled; Abdel-Sadek, Zakaria M; Gad, Eman F; Ahmad, Ahmad Roshdy; Elhoufey, Amira; Alanazi, Ahmed Tayeb B; Temsah, Mohamad-Hani; Embaby, Mostafa M · Pediatr Res · 2026

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Abstract

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.

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