Vitamin supplements are a popular way to enhance overall health and prevent illnesses. Vitamins are essential nutrients that our body cannot produce in enough amounts. Hence, we must obtain them from food or supplements.
It is believed that combining specific vitamins can increase their effectiveness in the body. In most cases, this combination is safe, but some combinations can be dangerous, leading to health complications, and in some cases, even death.
What is a Stroke?
A stroke is a life-threatening disease that occurs when the blood flow to the brain is interrupted. The cause of a stroke is a blocked or ruptured blood vessel in the brain.
It deprives the brain of the oxygen and nutrients it needs, causing brain cells to die. Strokes can be debilitating and can cause permanent damage to the brain.
Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), stroke kills about 140,000 Americans every year and is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States.
What Vitamins are Linked to Stroke Risk?
Recent studies have linked two vitamins to an increased risk of stroke when they are taken together. These are:.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. It helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can damage cells and contribute to aging and disease.
Studies have shown that taking high doses of vitamin E supplements can increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke, which is caused by a ruptured blood vessel in the brain.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health. It helps the body produce proteins that are necessary for blood clotting, which is essential for stopping bleeding after an injury.
However, studies have shown that taking high doses of vitamin K supplements can increase the risk of ischemic stroke, which is caused by a clot that blocks a blood vessel in the brain.
Why Do Vitamin E and Vitamin K Increase Stroke Risk?
The exact mechanism of how vitamin E and vitamin K increase stroke risk is not yet clear.
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However, some researchers believe that high levels of vitamin E and vitamin K can interfere with blood clotting, which can increase the risk of both hemorrhagic and ischemic strokes.
Vitamin E can also increase the bleeding tendency because of its blood-thinning properties, which can contribute to hemorrhagic stroke.
On the other hand, vitamin K can increase the risk of ischemic stroke by promoting blood clotting and increasing blood viscosity.
How Much Vitamin E and Vitamin K is Safe?
The recommended daily intake of vitamin E for adults is 15 milligrams per day, while that of vitamin K is 90 micrograms per day.
Studies have shown that taking up to 400 IU of vitamin E per day is safe for most people, but taking high doses of vitamin E supplements can increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke.
Similarly, taking high doses of vitamin K supplements, which is more than 1,000 micrograms per day, can increase the risk of ischemic stroke.
What are the Symptoms of Stroke?
Stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention. Recognizing the warning signs of a stroke can help prevent long-term disability or death. The common symptoms of stroke include:.
- Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body.
- Sudden confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding speech.
- Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes.
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause.
- Dizziness, loss of balance or coordination, especially with no apparent reason.
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately and seek medical attention.
Conclusion
Vitamins are essential nutrients that are necessary for proper bodily functions. However, taking too much of a good thing can be harmful. High doses of vitamin E and vitamin K supplements can increase the risk of stroke when taken together.
Therefore, it is essential to follow the recommended daily intake of these vitamins to prevent stroke.
