According to the National Library of Medicine, blood thinners are used to treat heart or blood vessel disease, poor blood flow to the brain, atrial fibrillation, heart value surgery or congenital heart defects. Blood thinners work to reduce the formation of blood clots in arteries and veins, which helps reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Vitamin K is stored in fat and naturally assists in blood clotting. The National Library of Medicine recommends eating reduced amounts of Vitamin K rich foods while taking blood thinners, as these foods may increase possible blood clotting. Common names of blood thinners include warfarin and Coumadin.
Greens-Collard, Mustard, Kale and Turnip
Greens, such as collard, mustard, kale and turnip, have high levels of vitamin K. Collard greens, for example, have 836 mcg of Vitamin K per 1 cup cooked serving, according to the USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference. Likewise, kale, mustard and turnip greens are high in vitamin K and should be avoided while on blood thinners.
Spinach
One cup of spinach has 888.5 mcg of vitamin K. In comparison, iceberg lettuce has only 17.4 mcg per cup. It would be a reasonable substitute.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts have approximately 299 mcg of vitamin K per serving. Although low in calories at only 65 calories per cup and high in fiber, they should be avoided in order to reduce the possible interaction with blood thinning medications.
Swiss Chard
One cup of cooked Swiss chard contains about 572 mcg of vitamin K. It is low is calories and has dietary fiber but should be consumed in limited quantities.
Asparagus
Asparagus has 45.5 mcg of vitamin K per half cup serving. This is over half of the daily recommended levels for both men and women. Although not excessive in Vitamin K, it is considered a high source and should be avoided completely or eaten sparingly.
Recommended Levels of Vitamin K
The Food and Nutrition Board at the Institute of Medicine recommend adults 19 and over consume about 90 mcg per day of vitamin K. Adolescents between 14 and 18 should limit vitamin K to 75 mcg per day. This level can vary in the presence of medications such as blood thinners. Consult a health care provider on the recommended daily requirements of vitamin K while on blood thinners.
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