Eat to beat the clots

Nutritionists have long known about the link between what we eat and our risk of heart and circulatory issues, including the development of clots. In fact a Mediterranean style diet which focuses on fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, olive oil and lean meats and oily fish is often recommended for reducing the incidence of heart disease and stroke.

There are individual foods within this diet which appear to be particularly useful for their effects on clot formation. Oily fish, which provides the omega 3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, can increase the production of compounds which lessen inflammation, which may reduce clot formation. Whilst it is often called a blood thinner, fish oil does not thin the blood, but does seem to reduce the ability of platelets to clump together into clots. Turmeric has a similar effect on platelets and reduces production of compounds known to cause inflammation. Another dietary spice, garlic, can reduce the level of a compound called thromboxane, which induces platelet aggregation.

However, the amounts needed in some cases may be harder for everyone to achieve with the diet; oily fish at least twice a week, 1-2 tsp of turmeric and 1-2 cloves of garlic regularly. In these cases, topping up with a supplement could be a quick and convenient way to get the same benefits. Link to Article