Blood clots, medically referred to as thrombi, are clusters of platelets that the body forms after an injury to help seal a wound.
The American Society of Hematology explains:
“Blood clotting, or coagulation, is a crucial process that prevents excessive bleeding when a blood vessel is damaged. Platelets (a type of blood cell) and proteins in your plasma (the liquid component of blood) team up to halt bleeding by forming a clot over the wound. Once healing is complete, the body generally breaks down and dissolves the clot on its own. However, if clots form within blood vessels without clear cause or fail to dissolve naturally, it can become hazardous, necessitating accurate diagnosis and suitable treatment.”
When blood clots fail to dissolve, they can trigger severe health issues, including strokes and heart attacks—two of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Blood clots are broadly categorized as arterial or venous, both of which can be harmful. However, venous clots are often more dangerous, as they can obstruct blood flow to critical organs like the heart or brain.
Symptoms of arterial clots may include muscle pain, limb weakness, tingling, numbness, and coolness in the affected area. Major risk factors for arterial clots include obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, inactivity, elevated cholesterol levels, and smoking.
Venous blood clots often develop after physical trauma and tend to form in the legs. They can result in three types of complications: deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (which can be fatal), and superficial venous thrombosis (the least severe type).
According to Everyday Health:
“Deep vein thrombosis refers to a blood clot forming in a deep vein, typically in the lower leg or thigh. A pulmonary embolism occurs when a clot dislodges and travels through the bloodstream to the lungs.“
Symptoms of DVT may include:
- Swelling in the affected arm or leg
- Pain or tenderness
- Increased warmth, cramps, or aching in the area
- Reddish or discolored skin tone
Pulmonary embolism symptoms can include:
- Shortness of breath
- Pain while breathing deeply
- Rapid breathing
- Elevated heart rate
- Coughing
To prevent dangerous complications, it’s essential to recognize early blood clot signs, such as tingling, numbness, a cold sensation in the limbs, chest heaviness, nausea, a racing heartbeat, fever, or excessive sweating. Thankfully, there are several natural ways to reduce the risk of blood clots and promote blood health:
Read later: These 10 Foods Will Prevent Clogged Arteries and Reduce Heart Attack Risk!
Follow a Balanced Diet
Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels can significantly reduce clotting risks. A diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods and low in processed ingredients and unhealthy fats can improve cholesterol levels and reduce blood clotting risks.
Stay Physically Active
Regular exercise—aiming for at least three sessions per week—can lower cholesterol levels and significantly reduce clot risk. Physical activity strengthens the cardiovascular system, helping to keep blood flowing smoothly.
Quit Smoking
Giving up smoking is one of the best ways to improve heart health, minimize clot risk, and support overall wellness.
Top Natural Blood Thinners
Several natural ingredients can support healthy blood flow and help reduce the risk of blood clots:
- Garlic
Garlic, especially when combined with olive oil and onions, is a potent natural cleanser and antibacterial agent that helps reduce clot formation. - Turmeric and Ginger
Both of these ingredients prevent platelets from sticking together, making them excellent natural blood thinners. - Vitamin C
A powerful antioxidant, Vitamin C boosts cardiovascular health. Foods rich in Vitamin C include citrus fruits, kale, cabbage, and fermented foods. - Vitamin E
Foods like kiwi, almonds, broccoli, green leafy vegetables, avocados, and squash are packed with Vitamin E, which helps oxygenate and thin the blood. - Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3-rich foods, including walnuts, fish, pumpkin seeds, and olive oil, are beneficial for blood flow and heart health. - Ginkgo Biloba
Known as a natural blood purifier, Ginkgo Biloba reduces fibrin levels in the blood, helping prevent clot formation.
By incorporating these foods and practices into your lifestyle, you can naturally support blood health and reduce the risk of harmful clots.
Must read: Science Reveals: Turmeric is Just as Powerful as These 7 Medications!
