Coumadin is an anticoagulant medication that prevents the formation of blood clots. A brand name for warfarin, Coumadin blocks the synthesis of certain blood-clotting factors involving vitamin K. People using Coumadin must take dietary vitamin K into consideration.
Function
Coumadin is prescribed to people who are at risk for heart attacks, strokes and blood clots in arteries and veins.
Caution
Because doctors prescribe Coumadin dosage based on blood tests, the Mayo Clinic website advises against making significant changes in the amount of vitamin K consumed without first discussing it with your doctor.
Foods
High amounts of vitamin K are found in kale, spinach, turnip and beet greens, and other leafy green vegetables. Large amounts also occur in other vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, celery and sweet potatoes.
Considerations
According to the Mayo Clinic, it's best to eat the recommended daily requirement of vitamin K, and eat a consistent amount from week to week, as vitamin K has important health benefits.
Significance
Patients worried about keeping their vitamin K intake consistent may want to ask their doctor about taking a daily supplement, as noted by the Ohio State University Medical Center. Vitamin K is important for maintaining bone density.
