hi Carolyn,

Aneurysm at the aortic root is very serious. Barring any surgical complications, he should do very well after the surgery, and more energy than he's had in a while

I posted some information about coumadin/warfarin to another member who must take this medication for life as well. Low carbing will not affect how the drug works, nor will the drug have an effect on low carbing. There's a slim possibility that the valve replacement may cause a tendency for fluid retention, which can mean a small weight gain .. cutting out the salt will be helpful.

With warfarin, vitamin E and vitamin K will interfere with it's action. But there are some other supplements you should watch out for:

• co-enzyme Q10 - is a wonderful anitoxidant, and often recommended for low carbers ... but it's structurally similar to vitamin K.
• vitamin A - can increase the blood thinning effect when combined with the warfarin. Best to take beta-carotene, which your body can convert to vitamin A as needed
• vitamin C in high doses (greater than 1000mg per day) can decrease the effect of warfarin

Vitamin K is produced in our intestine by the normal bacteria that reside there, as well as found in some foods. The dose of coumadin/warfarin is individualized to each person's body process, and takes into consideration the normal production of vitamin K. Prolonged diarrhea from the flu or other intestinal upset, as well as antibiotics can alter the bacterial flora, and may require adjusting the dose of warfarin. Losing a significant amount of weight will also require adjusting the dose, since the body surface area will be less. What a great feeling to have meds reduced because you've lost weight

all the best, and a speedy recovery

Doreen