Fibrins are fibrous proteins that combine with platelets to form blood clots. Fibrins behave as "biological band-aids" to prevent bleeding. Obese individuals with the condition known as factor V Leiden possess a higher risk of forming dangerous blood clots, which occur when the body can no longer control fibrin production, according to the American Heart Association. Blood clots have been linked to numerous health complications, including Alzheimer's, deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolisms. If you are overweight or obese and have factor V Leiden, a few simple alterations to your diet can help you minimize your risk.
Identification
If an injury or trauma breaks a blood vessel wall, the wound activates enzymatic reactions on the surface of platelets, specialized blood cells that interact with other blood proteins to form strands of fibrin, according to Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Fibrin strands build a mesh-like net that collects more platelets and produces a clot to seal the fissure. Factor V is involved in the enzyme reactions that form fibrins. Once enough fibrins have been made, a material known as activated protein C, or APC, becomes engaged and stops the clot from growing too large.
Significance
Fibrins can become resistant to APC in individuals with Factor V Leiden, wherein blood clots grow unchecked. According to "Circulation," the journal of the American Heart Association, obesity remains the single "most common modifiable risk factor" for developing blood clots through this abnormal fibrin production, especially obese individuals with Factor V Leiden. Small changes to diet, including eating more fiber at every meal and practicing portion control by eating smaller meals more frequently, can help you lose weight and reduce your risk of blood clots.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, refers to the formation of blood clots in the deep veins located in the legs and arms, according to Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. For cases in which a disorder such as Factor V Leiden causes the fibrins to clot uncontrollably, deep vein thrombosis is a serious concern. Losing excess weight through diet and adding more exercise to your daily routine can help decrease DVT onset.
Other Complications
According to the National Institutes of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, blood clots have been linked to Alzheimer's. The interaction between fibrins and beta-amyloid, the key protein fragment that researchers say plays a role in Alzheimer's onset, also makes fibrins APC-resistant.
Prevention/Solution
Diet and exercise can significantly reduce the risk of APC resistance in fibrins, especially in those individuals who are overweight or obese. Becoming more active, adopting healthy eating habits and losing weight can help guard against the dangers of blood clots. For obese people who also have Factor V Leiden, the American Heart Association recommends that you avoid long periods of immobility. During long flights, for example, walking up and down the aisle regularly is recommended.
