Interactions between your medications There were no interactions discovered between beetroot and warfarin. This does not imply that no interactions exist. Always seek the advice of your healthcare practitioner. Beetroots have been used in Europe for centuries to treat anemia. Scientists have now found that compounds in beetroots can also prevent blood from clotting, which is why they're useful in treating thrombosis (the formation of a clot). Beets contain antioxidants called betalains that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. It is this property that may help people who are at risk of developing heart disease or stroke. Beets are available year-round but will grow larger and be redder during warmer months. They should be washed before eating; the green tops should be removed because they contain irritants that can cause stomach pain. The roots should be peeled before cooking; the skin should be removed because it contains fibers that can cause constipation if eaten in large quantities. People who are taking drugs to thin their blood may need to avoid beetroots or else take them with great caution. Blood thinning medications include aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), heparin, and clopidogrel (Plavix). Eating foods that are high in vitamin K helps prevent blood clotting.