Why are babies given a Vitamin K injection

A.� Babies are given an injection of Vitmain K shortly after birth to make the blood clot. Mothers are given the choice by their doctor or midwife, but most accept the injection is important in new-born infants whose cicrulation and ability to clot may be immature.

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Q.� What is Vitamin K

A.� It is part of the fat soluble vitamins including phylloquinones and the menaquinones which are essential for the nromal clotting of blood. It produces prothrombin, which causes clotting. Some studies suggest Vitamin K helps maintain strong bones in the elderly because it is essential for cartilage and bone production. Deficiency leads to a tendency to bleed but this is unlikely because Vitamin K is also synthesised by bacteria that line the gastrointestinal tract in the gut.

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Q.� What are good food sources of Vitamin K

A.� Good sources include cabbage, cauliflower, soya beans and nuts.

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Q.� What supplements should you be taking this winter

A.� Vtamin C, also called ascorbic acid, is vital for growth and essential for the formation of collagen, a protein necessary for healthy bones, teeth, gums, blood capillaries and connective tissues. It also plays an important part in healing wounds and fractures and acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect the heart. Vitamin C, found in many fruit and vegetables, is unstable, and large amounts can be lost through lengthy preparation of food. Signs of deficiency include lethargy, bleeding gums and low resistance to infection.

Zinc is critical for normal growth, sexual development and reproduction. It is also needed for a healthy immune system, night vision and our ability to taste and smell. A jaded appetite and poor wound healing are the first signs of deficiency. Good food sources include red meat, sunflower seeds, peanuts and oysters. (This is why oysters are considered an aphrodisiac).

Iron is an essential part of haemoglobin, the pigment in red blood cells that transports oxygen to the body's tissues and organs. Found in lean meat, sardines, fortified breakfast cereals and green, leafy vegetables. It also helps make myoglobin, which stores oxygen in muscle, and boost the immune system. Lethargy and breathlessness are first signs of iron deficiency, which can lead to aneamia, hair loss, lower resistance to infection and itchy skin. Vitamin C increases iron absorption - a glass of orange juice with a boiled egg is a good way to intake both vitamins efficiently.

Vitamin E is a term which applies to eight related compounds known as tocopherols which function as antioxidants to protect the body from chemicals in the environment by stablising them before they harm cells. Many studies have suggested that Vitamin E can defend against the ill-effects of smoking, air pollutants and the sun, as well as preventing cancers and ageing of the skin. It also boosts the immune system. Good sources are almonds, sunflower seeds, hazlenuts and vegetable oils.

Vitamin A is essential for normal growth, an efficient immune system, healthy� skins and good vision. Sources include milk, liver, oil-rich fish, apricots and spinach. Lack of Vitamin A can cause blindness but, in the West, more commonly causes infection and poor growth. Too much, however, can be toxic, and pregnant women should avoid high concentration because it has been linked to birth defects.

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by Katharine MacColl