Peanut butter contains vitamin E and resveratrol, both of which can increase the side effects of blood thinners. Vitamin E-rich foods are considered natural blood thinners themselves. We’re talking spinach, tomatoes, kiwis, mangoes, and yes, peanut butter. When consumed in excess with blood thinning medications like warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, and clopidogrel (Plavix), vitamin E can increase your risk of bleeding.
Resveratrol, which is found in peanuts and peanut butter, is a polyphenol that has been associated with the prevention of skin cancer, protection against heart disease, and improving insulin sensitivity. It is also, however, thought to slow blood clotting (via WebMD). Consuming this polyphenol with blood thinners could also increase your risk of bruising and bleeding.
That being said, vitamin E’s benefits for heart health have mixed results, per science. Because it reduces the risk of blood clotting, it could prevent heart attacks and sudden death (via ScienceDaily). However, there is also research that suggests that vitamin E supplementation should be avoided by people with severe heart disease (per Mayo Clinic). Back to blood thinners, how much peanut butter should you be eating?