Reductions before op

[perforce 243]

I got this list of things I have to remove/reduce from my diet from the surgeon. I googled salicylates but don't understand what is bad about them in surgical situations? Also, why is vit E and fish oil etc bad? I'll follow the instructions of course, I'm just wondering.

This is the part of the list I don't get:

HERBAL / HEALTH supplements (They have to be reduced before surgery)

· Arnica – 2 weeks

· Vitamin E – 2 weeks

· Fish Oil (Omega 3) – 1 week

· Gingko Biloba – 2 weeks

· Garlic – 1 week

· Natural foods high in Salicylates: curry, cayenne pepper, ginger, paprika, thyme, cinnamon, dill, oregano, turmeric, liquorice, peppermint, raisins, cherries, cranberries, oranges, prunes, grapes, strawberries, chewing gum, honey, wine, cider, vinegar.

[andromache 16]

Salicylates reduce your platelets, meaning you won't clot like you're supposed to and have a higher risk of bleeding more than you should.

[andromache 16]

Not sure about most of the herbals, but a general rule of thumb is that anything that starts with a G is a natural blood thinner (ginkgo, gensing, etc.).

Also, I'm not just spouting off pseudoscience, I'm a student pharmacist.

[perforce 243]

Ah, I see, that makes sense then. Anyone got any idea about the Vitamin E and the fish oil?

[BLERDgirl 6,417]

Ah, I see, that makes sense then. Anyone got any idea about the Vitamin E and the fish oil?

Also possible blood thinners.

[perforce 243]

Thanks for the answers guys