Hi Bonnie! You are correct that Dr. Esselstyn’s program emphasizes abundant leafy greens, and some of those greens, particularly kale, spinach, and collard greens, are high in vitamin K, which actually plays a role in blood clotting rather than thinning. So the “blood thinning” effect you mention is worth clarifying with whoever is guiding your care, as the picture can be nuanced depending on your individual situation and any medications you may be taking.

On amla, also known as Indian gooseberry, it is a genuinely impressive food from a nutritional standpoint, exceptionally high in vitamin C and antioxidants, and it does appear in some research as supportive of cardiovascular health and cholesterol levels. However, you are right to flag it. Amla does have mild antiplatelet properties, meaning it may have some blood-thinning effect, and there are a small number of studies and case reports noting this. For most healthy people this is not a significant concern, but in the context of an already plant-rich diet and any other supplements or medications, it is worth discussing with your cardiologist or healthcare provider before adding it regularly.

Since you cannot tolerate statins, the combination of the Esselstyn approach with careful supplementation under medical guidance is a very reasonable path. –Ina, Food Revolution Network Team

Hello Margaritis–thank you for the question.

Amyloidosis is a relatively rare condition in which abnormal proteins called amyloids build up in organs and tissues, and it can take several different forms depending on which organs are affected. It is genuinely complex, and we want to be straightforward with you: this is a condition that requires close, ongoing care from a specialist, typically a hematologist or nephrologist depending on the type involved.

From a nutritional standpoint, there is not a large body of research specifically on diet and amyloidosis the way there is for conditions like diabetes or heart disease. However, what the broader evidence does support is that an anti-inflammatory, whole food plant-based diet may help support organ function, reduce systemic inflammation, and support the body generally. Protecting kidney and heart health through low-sodium, high-antioxidant eating is particularly relevant since those organs are commonly affected.

Staying well hydrated, minimizing processed foods, reducing saturated fat, and eating plenty of colorful vegetables, legumes, and whole grains are all consistent with supporting overall resilience.

I hope this is a helpful overview. Thank you again for the question! –Ina, Food Revolution Network Team