Doctors prescribe Coumadin, the brand name of the generic medication warfarin, to treat and prevent blood clots. Because Coumadin thins the blood, it can cause dangerous side effects such as excessive bleeding. Taking certain medications or supplements or eating foods containing certain nutrients can increase the risk of developing these side effects. One specific nutrient found naturally in some foods or available in supplements, omega-3 fatty acids, can be dangerous if you take Coumadin.
Coumadin Effects
Although the clotting ability of blood is essential for preventing excessive bleeding from minor injuries, some medical conditions allow blood to clot too easily. The formation of blood clots can contribute to a heart attack or stroke. The clotting of blood involves complex chemical reactions that require vitamin K. Coumadin decreases the activity of vitamin K, which increases the length of time it takes for blood to clot.
Vitamin K
The human body needs vitamin K for proteins involved in the clotting of blood to function effectively. Without sufficient vitamin K the blood will not clot, which can lead to excessive bleeding. If you take Coumadin to treat blood clots, doctors recommend keeping your intake of vitamin K consistent. Too much vitamin K can decrease the effectiveness of Coumadin resulting in the continued formation of blood clots. Consuming too little vitamin K can increase the effectiveness of Coumadin, making the blood too thin which contributes to excessive bleeding. The Linus Pauling Institute recommends 90 mcg per day for women and 120 mcg per day for men.
Omega-3 Fatty Acid Function
Omega-3 fatty acids describe a group of essential fatty acids that help reduce inflammation while lowering the risk for heart disease, cancer and arthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids travel to the brain where they improve brain memory and performance while affecting behavioral functions.
Positive Effects
Both Coumadin and omega-3 fatty acids stimulate positive health effects in the body. Coumadin improves blood flow and prevents the formation of blood clots that can become life-threatening. Consuming significant levels of omega-3 fatty acids, either from natural food sources or fish oil supplements, can help to lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure, which reduces the risk for developing heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids may also benefit your health if you suffer from diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus.
Interactions
Despite the individual positive effects, if you take Coumadin beware of the possible negative interactions triggered by consuming omega-3 fatty acids as well. Increased levels of omega-3 fatty acids can contribute to bruising or excessive bleeding. To prevent this interaction, do not take fish oil supplements without first consulting your doctor. Also, avoid food sources of omega-3 fatty acids including fatty fish such as herring, tuna and salmon.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- The National Institutes of Health Drug Nutrient Interaction Task Force: Coumadin and Vitamin K
- MayoClinic.com: Warfarin Side Effects
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Possible Interactions with Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Linus Pauling Institute: Vitamin K
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