Vitamin K Foods To Avoid While On Eliquis
Eliquis is a medication that is prescribed to prevent blood clots in people with certain medical conditions. While taking Eliquis, it is important to monitor your diet and avoid certain foods that are high in vitamin K, as vitamin K can interfere with the effectiveness of the medication. In this article, we will discuss vitamin K foods to avoid while on Eliquis.
What is Eliquis?
Eliquis (apixaban) is a blood thinner that is used to prevent blood clots in people with atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and pulmonary embolism (PE). It works by inhibiting clotting factors in the blood, which prevents the formation of blood clots.
Why Avoid Vitamin K Foods?
Vitamin K is a vitamin that plays a crucial role in blood clotting. When you eat foods that are high in vitamin K, it can interfere with the effectiveness of Eliquis and increase your risk of developing blood clots. Therefore, it is important to avoid vitamin K foods while taking Eliquis.
Foods High in Vitamin K
Some common foods that are high in vitamin K include:
- Leafy green vegetables, such as kale, spinach, collard greens, and turnip greens
- Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage
- Green tea
- Soybeans and soy products
- Liver and other organ meats
- Egg yolks
Foods Low in Vitamin K
While it is important to avoid vitamin K foods while taking Eliquis, there are still plenty of foods that are low in vitamin K that you can enjoy. Some examples include:
- White bread, pasta, and rice
- Fruits, such as apples, bananas, and grapes
- Vegetables, such as carrots, cauliflower, and cucumbers
- Milk and other dairy products
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Nuts and seeds
Tips for Managing Your Diet While on Eliquis
To manage your diet while taking Eliquis, consider the following tips:
- Consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian to develop a meal plan that is low in vitamin K.
- Read food labels carefully to determine the vitamin K content of packaged foods.
- Avoid herbal supplements and teas that contain vitamin K.
- Limit your consumption of alcohol, as it can increase your risk of bleeding while on Eliquis.
- Notify your doctor if you experience any signs of bleeding, such as easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts, or blood in your urine or stool.
Conclusion
If you are taking Eliquis, it is important to manage your diet and avoid vitamin K foods to ensure that the medication is effective. By following these tips and working with your doctor or a registered dietitian, you can manage your diet while on Eliquis and reduce your risk of developing blood clots.