ACE Personal Trainer Practice Exam

Which vitamin is essential for blood-clotting functions?

1. Vitamin D

2. Vitamin E

3. Vitamin K

4. Folate

The correct answer is: Vitamin K

Vitamin K is essential for blood-clotting functions because it plays a crucial role in the synthesis of certain proteins known as clotting factors, which are necessary for proper blood coagulation. Without adequate levels of vitamin K, the body would struggle to form blood clots effectively, which can lead to excessive bleeding and complications. Vitamin K exists in two main forms: K1, found in leafy green vegetables, and K2, found in various animal products and fermented foods. Both forms contribute to the body's needs for blood clotting. In contrast, the other vitamins listed do not have a direct role in the clotting process. While vitamin D is important for bone health and the absorption of calcium, vitamin E serves primarily as an antioxidant, and folate is involved in DNA synthesis and repair, none of them are critical for the blood-clotting pathway as vitamin K is.