When you are healthy, your blood is able to move through your arteries and veins with no problem. But some people's blood may become constricted and leads to the formation of blood clots. If steps are not taken to thin the blood, the clot could potentially be released and lead to a heart attack or stroke. Those with blood clots are often given blood thinners to allow the clot to break up and the blood move smoothly through the system. There are some foods that can be eaten that act as a natural thinner for your blood.
Ginger
Ginger has been used medicinally in India and Asia since ancient times. It has a number of benefits, such as the ability to treat nausea, upset stomach, diarrhea, arthritis and colic. It is also believed to be able to help with menstrual cramps and headaches. One of the most important benefits of ginger may be its interaction with your blood. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, preliminary studies have shown that ginger has the ability to prevent blood clots from forming in your body and lower your cholesterol levels. These two benefits combined help prevent conditions in the blood vessels that can lead to atherosclerosis.
Vitamin E
Foods containing vitamin E also provide blood-thinning benefits. Vitamin E is fat-soluble and prevents essential fatty acids and vitamin A from oxidizing within your blood cells. This vitamin is also useful in preventing body tissues from being broken down. Vitamin E can be found in a variety of foods, including walnuts, oats, almonds, wheat, hazelnuts, rice, pistachios, lentils and peanuts. It can also be found in a variety of oils such as canola, palm, peanut, sunflower, sesame and corn oils.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids found in fish. These fatty acids are essential because they are needed by your body to survive. Omega-3 fatty acids must be consumed through the foods you eat because your body does not have the ability to make them on their own. According to the Cleveland Clinic, these essential fatty acids are a natural anti-coagulant that prevents the platelets in your blood from clumping together, allowing the blood to flow freely through your arteries.
Considerations
If you suffer from blood clots, foods should not be used to replace any type of blood-thinning medication that has been prescribed by a doctor. If you are taking blood-thinning medication, it may be important to watch how much of these blood-thinning foods you consume. It is possible for your blood to become too thin. Consult your physician for advice on the appropriate amounts, if any, that should be consumed.
