A prominent neurologist has issued a stark and urgent warning, directly linking three immensely popular over-the-counter vitamin supplements to a significantly increased risk of devastating strokes and brain haemorrhages.
Dr David Geier, a respected specialist in neurology, is urging the public to exercise extreme caution with their use of certain dietary aids, despite their widespread availability and marketing as health boosters. His concerns are rooted in their potential to cause dangerous blood abnormalities.
The Dangerous Trio: Supplements to Reconsider
According to Dr Geier, the three most concerning supplements are those that directly interfere with the body's vital blood-clotting process.
1. Vitamin E
Often taken for its antioxidant properties, Vitamin E can act as a blood thinner. Dr Geier cautions that in high doses, it significantly elevates the risk of bleeding-type strokes, known as haemorrhagic strokes, where a blood vessel bursts in the brain.
2. Green Tea Extract
A favourite for weight loss and metabolism boosting, concentrated green tea extract has been associated with potential liver damage. More critically, its compounds can also affect coagulation, adding another layer of risk for bleeding events.
3. Vitamin K
While essential for blood clotting, Vitamin K's potency is the problem. Dr Geier warns that its ability to thicken the blood can inadvertently increase the risk of ischemic strokes, which are caused by clots blocking blood flow to the brain. This is particularly dangerous for individuals already on prescription blood-thinning medication like Warfarin, as it can dangerously counteract the drug's effects.
Why This Warning Matters Now
This alert is critical due to the pervasive 'more is better' mentality surrounding supplements. Many individuals self-prescribe high doses without medical consultation, believing they are undertaking a simple act of wellness. Dr Geier's warning shatters this assumption, highlighting that these unregulated products can have powerful and unintended consequences on our most complex organ—the brain.
The neurologist's advice is clear and unequivocal: Always consult a GP or a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen. This is especially crucial for those with existing health conditions or those taking other medications, where interactions can be severe and life-threatening.
