Natural blood thinners, or anti-coagulants, keep platelet cells in blood from forming clots, which can be of benefit in clogged arteries but fatal if an artery or vein is breached and bleeds uncontrollably. Some vitamins, minerals, vegetables, fruits and herbs display properties that interfere with the actions of platelet cells, either directly or indirectly.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is considered a blood thinner, because it is an antagonist to vitamin K. Vitamin K is essential for coagulation, which is a process that quickly forms blood clots at sites of injury and promotes healing. Vitamin E disables the function of vitamin K. Some foods rich in vitamin E, such as spinach and broccoli, are also rich in vitamin K. They tend to cancel each other out in terms of affecting the blood. Supplementing with vitamin E is not recommended for those already on blood-thinning medication or who have a history of hemorrhagic strokes or aneurysms, according to the textbook "Human Biochemistry and Disease," by Gerald Litwack.
Magnesium
Magnesium plays an important role in preventing blood clots and keeping the blood thin by directly influencing platelet aggregation. Magnesium works in similar fashion to aspirin but without the negative side effects or drug interactions, as cited in "The New Encyclopedia of Vitamins, Minerals, Supplements, and Herbs," by Nicola Reavley. Magnesium also promotes relaxation of blood vessels, which can increase blood oxygenation by improving cardiac contractibility.
Fruits, Vegetables and Herbs Containing Salicylates
Salicylates are aspirinlike substances that block vitamin K absorption and reduce platelet cell aggregation, as cited in "Biochemical, Physiological and Molecular Aspects of Human Nutrition," by Martha Stipanuk. Cerebral strokes that occur from blockage, not bleeds, can be reduced with platelet cells that don't stick together. Fruits high in salicylates include raisins, prunes, cherries, cranberries, blueberries, grapes, oranges and strawberries. Herbs and spices high in salicylates include curry powder, cayenne pepper, ginger, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, licorice and peppermint. Other foods known for their salicylate content include honey, broccoli, avocados, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts.
Garlic and Onions
Some foods, most notably garlic and onions, are natural antibiotics that reduce the number of intestinal bacteria that synthesize vitamin K, thus reducing platelet-cell aggregation. Garlic contains nine compounds, called anti-aggregants, that prevent platelet cells from sticking together and clotting, as cited in "Advanced Nutrition: Macronutrients, Micronutrients, and Metabolism," by Carolyn D. Berdanier. Other foods that have anti-aggregant properties include jicama, pomegranate juice and olive oil.
References
- "Human Biochemistry and Disease"; Gerald Litwack; 2008
- "The New Encyclopedia of Vitamins, Minerals, Supplements, and Herbs"; Nicola Reavley; 1999
- "Biochemical, Physiological and Molecular Aspects of Human Nutrition"; Martha Stipanuk; 2006
- "Advanced Nutrition: Macronutrients, Micronutrients, and Metabolism"; Carolyn D. Berdanier; 2009
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