Eating Well While Taking Warfarin (Coumadin) – A Simple Guide to Vitamin K & Your Diet

Warfarin (also called Coumadin®) is a medication that helps prevent blood clots.

Vitamin K is a nutrient found in many foods that plays an important role in how your blood clots. Because warfarin works by affecting Vitamin K, what you eat matters.

The key is not to avoid Vitamin K —
👉 The goal is to keep your intake consistent from week to week.

Sudden increases or decreases in Vitamin K can affect how well your medication works.

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Why Consistency Matters

If Vitamin K intake changes too much:

• Your blood may clot too easily, OR
• Your risk of bleeding may increase

Keeping your diet steady helps your provider maintain the right medication dose.

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Foods That Contain Vitamin K

(You can still eat these — just be consistent!)

Vitamin K is found mainly in green vegetables.

Examples include:

✔ Spinach
✔ Kale
✔ Broccoli
✔ Brussels sprouts
✔ Cabbage
✔ Collard greens
✔ Turnip greens
✔ Lettuce
✔ Parsley

Also found in:

✔ Soybean oil
✔ Canola oil
✔ Mayonnaise
✔ Salad dressings made with these oils

You do not necessarily need to avoid these foods —
just try to eat similar amounts each week. Ask your healthcare provider for any specific dietary recommendations.

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Foods With Lower Vitamin K

These are generally easier to include without affecting warfarin levels:

✔ Avocado
✔ Corn
✔ Potatoes
✔ Tomatoes
✔ Apples
✔ Bananas
✔ Berries
✔ Rice

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Alcohol & Warfarin

Alcohol can change how warfarin works.

✔ If you drink, keep it moderate and consistent
✔ Avoid sudden changes in drinking habits

Always discuss alcohol use with your provider.

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Supplements & Herbal Products

Some supplements and herbal products may interfere with warfarin.

Use caution with:

• Fish oil
• Garlic supplements
• Ginseng
• Ginkgo
• Coenzyme Q10
• Vitamin E
• Herbal teas or blends

Always check with your provider before starting:

👉 Any new supplement or over-the-counter product
👉 Herbal product
👉 “Natural” remedy

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Helpful Eating Tips

✔ Eat a balanced diet
✔ Keep leafy green intake steady
✔ Avoid sudden diet changes
✔ Ask your provider before making major diet changes
✔ Stay hydrated

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When to Talk to Your Doctor

Contact your healthcare provider if:

• You plan to change your diet
• You are considering starting supplements
• You notice unusual bruising
• You experience bleeding
• You are ill and not eating normally
• Always ask your healthcare provider for specific advice on when to call to report symptoms, and when to seek urgent/emergency care.  

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Medical Disclaimer

This material is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare provider. Individuals taking warfarin should consult their physician or registered dietitian before making dietary or supplement changes. Seek medical attention if you experience unusual bleeding, bruising, or symptoms of concern. Call 911 if you are experiencing a medical emergency.

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Sources:

• https://www.uptodate.com/contents/overview-of-vitamin-k?search=vitamin%20k%20and%20warfarin&source=search_result&selectedTitle=2~150&usage_type=default&display_rank=2