Today, we’re exploring natural ways to maintain healthy blood flow and prevent unwanted clotting. This knowledge is valuable if you want to prevent heart attacks, strokes, clots related to atrial fibrillation (Afib), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and more. In this video, I’ll share eight nutrients and lifestyle tips that can help prevent and dissolve blood clots and promote better circulation.
First, let’s understand how your body’s clotting process works.
When you get a cut or injury, your body has a remarkable system to stop bleeding quickly, called the coagulation system. This system mainly uses two key components: platelets and fibrin.
Platelets are tiny cell fragments in your blood that act like natural band-aids. When you’re injured, they rush to the cut and stick together, forming a temporary plug to slow bleeding. However, this platelet plug alone isn’t enough to completely stop blood loss. That’s where fibrin comes in.
Fibrin starts as a protein called fibrinogen that’s dissolved in your blood. When you’re injured, fibrinogen is converted into fibrin, which forms long, sticky strands. These strands weave through the platelet plug, creating a mesh-like structure that traps more blood cells and platelets. Think of it like this: if the platelets are bricks in a dam, fibrin is the cement that holds everything together, creating a strong barrier to stop blood flow.
However, while this process serves a critical function, it can also pose serious health risks when clots form abnormally or fail to dissolve as they should. In such cases, these undissolved clots can obstruct blood flow, leading to dangerous conditions.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the legs. This can cause swelling and pain in the affected area. The real danger arises if a piece of the clot breaks off and travels through the bloodstream to the lungs, resulting in a pulmonary embolism, which can be life-threatening.
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Blood clots also play a significant role in other serious cardiovascular events. In the case of a heart attack, a blood clot can block a coronary artery, cutting off blood supply to the heart muscle. Similarly, when a blood clot travels to the brain and blocks an artery, it can cause a stroke by depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients.
Therefore, maintaining optimal blood flow is crucial – allowing clotting when necessary but preventing it when it’s not. While blood-thinning medications are often prescribed to manage this delicate balance, they can come with side effects, such as increased risk of bleeding and gastrointestinal issues.
As a result, many people seek natural alternatives. Fortunately, nature offers many options that can effectively help regulate blood consistency with minimal (if any) side effects. In the next segment, we’ll explore these natural options in detail, starting with the first of our eight key nutrients.
As always, this information is educational and does not constitute medical advice. Remember to consult with your doctor before taking any new supplements, especially if you’re already on blood thinners, or have any existing health conditions.
Our first blood flow-boosting vitamin is Number 8. “Vitamin E”.
Vitamin E plays a crucial role in blood regulation, helping to maintain fluidity and acting as a powerful antioxidant. In this capacity, it protects blood vessels from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. This protective action is vital for preserving the integrity of the vascular system, thereby reducing the risk of clot formation. To boost your Vitamin E intake, you can consume nutrient-rich foods like avocados, sunflower seeds, almonds, and spinach. These foods not only provide essential nutrients but also promote overall blood vessel health. For those considering supplementation, the recommended dosage of Vitamin E for adults is 15 milligrams per day, though obtaining nutrients from whole foods is generally preferable.
Related: Top 20 Best Foods To Prevent Blood Clots
The next natural clot-buster is Number 7. “Nattokinase”.
Nattokinase, a potent enzyme derived from natto (a traditional Japanese fermented soybean food), is prized for its clot-preventing capabilities. This enzyme has gained attention for its remarkable ability to support cardiovascular health, particularly in the dissolution of blood clots. Nattokinase works by breaking down fibrin, the protein that forms the mesh-like structure of blood clots. This action helps promote better blood flow and reduce the risk of clot-related complications. While the recommended dosage can vary, a common regimen is around 100 mg twice per day.
Interestingly, nattokinase is often combined with serrapeptase, an enzyme derived from silkworm intestinal bacteria. Serrapeptase complements nattokinase with its anti-inflammatory and protein-dissolving properties. It helps reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling while breaking down non-living tissues like scar tissue, mucus, and blood clots. This combination enhances the overall benefits for cardiovascular and circulatory health.
Related: 7 Nutrients To Remove Calcium Plaque From Your Arteries
Coming up, our Number 6 circulation enhancer is “Vitamin C”.
Vitamin C is crucial for healthy blood flow, primarily by strengthening collagen in arteries. This protein strengthens and flexes blood vessels, supporting healthy circulation and heart function.
To increase Vitamin C intake, incorporate nutrient-rich foods like strawberries, bell peppers, oranges, kiwi, and broccoli into your diet. Not only do these sources provide Vitamin C, but they also offer additional antioxidants and nutrients beneficial for overall health. While synthetic supplements are available, whole food sources may be more effective due to the presence of compounds that enhance absorption and utilization. Consequently, focusing on a diet rich in natural Vitamin C sources is the best approach to support healthy blood flow and overall vascular health.
Moving on, the next clot-dissolving nutrient is Number 5. “Phytochemicals”.
Phytochemicals, or bioactive compounds, play a significant role in preventing blood clots, with certain herbs standing out for their beneficial properties. Garlic, ginger, cassia cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and turmeric are excellent examples of phytonutrient-rich foods that can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of clot formation.
Garlic contains allicin, a sulfur compound that thins the blood and prevents platelet aggregation, thereby reducing the likelihood of clots. Ginger complements this effect with its salicylates, chemicals with anticoagulant properties similar to aspirin. Cinnamon adds to these benefits with coumarin, another compound known to help prevent blood clots and reduce cardiovascular risks.
Further enhancing these effects, cayenne pepper, rich in capsaicin, improves blood flow and reduces blood pressure. Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, rounds out this group with its renowned anti-inflammatory properties, helping to prevent the chronic inflammation that can lead to clotting issues.
For those who may not enjoy the taste of these foods, supplementation options such as garlic extract, turmeric capsules, ginger supplements, and cinnamon extracts can provide similar health benefits.
Related: Eat 3 Foods Daily To Boost Nitric Oxide
Next, our Number 4 clot-dissolving nutrient is “Bromelain”.
Bromelain, a powerful enzyme found in pineapples, offers surprising benefits for cardiovascular health and blood flow. As a proteolytic enzyme, it helps break down fibrin, a protein involved in blood clot formation. By reducing fibrin levels, bromelain helps prevent excessive clotting and improve circulation, while its anti-inflammatory properties protect blood vessel walls from damage and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. Although pineapple is the primary natural source of bromelain, with the enzyme most concentrated in the fruit’s stem, those seeking higher doses may opt for bromelain supplements.
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The next natural blood thinner is Number 3. “Magnesium”.
Magnesium acts as a natural blood thinner by lowering blood pressure, reducing platelet stickiness, decreasing inflammation, and slowing fibrin formation. This mineral also balances out calcium’s effects in the blood. These actions mainly help prevent blood clots from forming, rather than dissolving existing clots. Interestingly, recent research shows that magnesium doesn’t just thin the blood – it also plays a role in helping blood clot when needed. It can make clotting factors work better and speed up the clotting process when necessary. This dual action prevents excessive clotting while ensuring clots form when needed. To boost magnesium intake, consume foods like spinach, pumpkin seeds, almonds, black beans, avocados, and dark chocolate. If diet alone doesn’t provide enough magnesium, supplements or electrolyte powders can serve as convenient alternatives.
Related: Cinnamon and Magnesium May Lower Blood Pressure More Than Medication
Next up, the Number 2 blood flow enhancer is “Fish Oil”.
Fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, offers significant benefits for blood flow and cardiovascular health. These essential fats reduce blood clot risk by lowering triglycerides, decreasing inflammation, and improving circulation. Regular intake is key to maximizing these benefits. Wild salmon is an excellent source, while walnuts and flaxseeds offer plant-based alternatives. The American Heart Association recommends eating fatty fish twice weekly, or 1,000-3,000 mg of EPA and DHA daily for supplementation. Consistent omega-3 consumption, regardless of source, supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and enhances blood flow, contributing to overall well-being.
Related: What Happens When You Take Fish Oil for 90 Days
Finally, our Number 1 circulation enhancer is “Berberine”.
Berberine, a compound found in various plants, shows promising potential in preventing blood clots. It works by preventing the clumping of platelets that can lead to clot formation, and decreases levels of the clot protein, fibrinogen. Additionally, it has anti-inflammatory properties that protect blood vessel walls from damage. While berberine doesn’t directly dissolve existing clots, it improves blood flow and vascular health, preventing new clots from forming.
There you have it! The most important nutrients to dissolve blood clots naturally. If you’re on blood thinners and considering natural alternatives, it’s important to consult your doctor first.
Related: Top 10 Nutrients in Foods that Clean Your Arteries Fast
Finally, here are eight lifestyle strategies that can help maintain excellent blood circulation and minimize clotting risks:
Eat an organic, anti-inflammatory diet rich in fresh vegetables, nuts, seeds, seafood, grass-fed meats, and free-range poultry and eggs, while reducing consumption of processed, factory-made foods.
Get adequate sun exposure, especially before long journeys, as sunlight can boost blood flow and reduce clot risks.
Minimize toxins in your environment, such as checking for mold in your home, and quit smoking.
Stay hydrated with clean water to ensure your blood remains fluid and circulates efficiently.
Get quality sleep by following the natural day-night cycle, as this helps reduce inflammation, balance hormones, and improve blood flow.
Find ways to relax and reduce stress, such as through exercise or meditation, to prevent blood vessel constriction and elevated blood pressure.
Engage in regular exercise, especially outdoors, to improve mood and maintain good blood circulation throughout your body.
Maintain good oral hygiene, as gum disease and tooth infections can cause inflammation in your body, increasing the risk of clots.
By following these tips, you can help keep your blood flowing well and lower your risk of dangerous blood clots.