Study finds vitamin E supplements may reduce blod clots in women

PHILADELPHIA A study published online at the American Heart Association’s journal Circulation web site Monday found that supplementation with vitamin E may reduce the risk of venous thromboembolism (blood clots) in women, and those with a prior history or genetic predisposition may particularly benefit.

The Women's Health Study randomized 39,876 women 45 years of age to receive 600 IU of natural source vitamin E or placebo on alternate days.

During a median follow-up period of 10.2 years, VTE occurred in 482 women: 213 in the vitamin E group and 269 in the placebo group, a significant 21 percent hazard reduction.

The report suggested more research would be necessary before drawing any concrete conclusions, however.