Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for several bodily functions, including:

Blood Clotting: It plays a crucial role in synthesizing proteins needed for blood coagulation.
Bone Health: Vitamin K works in conjunction with calcium and vitamin D to maintain strong bones and reduce fracture risk.
Cardiovascular Health: It helps prevent the calcification of blood vessels, which can lead to hypertension and heart disease.

There are two main forms of vitamin K: K1 (phylloquinone), primarily found in plant foods, and K2 (menaquinone), found in animal products and fermented foods. The recommended daily allowance for adults is approximately 90 micrograms for women and 120 micrograms for men.

When it comes to avocado oil, the USDA database indicates that it does not contain a measurable amount of vitamin K. According to the Health meets Food Team from Culinary Medicine, avocado oil has such low levels of vitamin K that it is not reported in nutritional labels or databases. This means that if you're trying to monitor your vitamin K intake, avocado oil should not pose a concern.

While avocado oil is low in vitamin K, it is essential to compare it with other commonly used cooking oils:

Olive Oil: Contains more vitamin K than avocado oil, particularly in its extra-virgin form, which is known for its health benefits.
Canola Oil: Contains about 10 micrograms of vitamin K per tablespoon, significantly higher than avocado oil.

If you're concerned about vitamin K intake, especially if you’re on blood-thinning medications like warfarin, it's crucial to check the vitamin K content of other oils and food products you consume.

Despite its negligible vitamin K content, avocado oil offers several health benefits:

Rich in Monounsaturated Fats: Similar to olive oil, avocado oil is high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels.
Antioxidants: It contains antioxidants and carotenoids that can help reduce inflammation and support eye health.
Cooking Versatility: With a high smoke point, avocado oil is ideal for high-heat cooking methods like frying and roasting.

In summary, avocado oil contains negligible amounts of vitamin K, making it a safe choice for those monitoring their intake of this vitamin. Its health benefits, including being rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. If you’re looking for oils high in vitamin K, consider alternatives like olive oil or canola oil. As always, consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific dietary concerns, especially if you are on medication that affects vitamin K metabolism.