Can Certain Foods Prevent Blood Clots?

In order to reduce the risk of thrombosis, or internal blood clots, individuals should follow a diet that is low in saturated fats, high in fiber, and rich in fruits and vegetables. Some specific foods have blood-thinning properties, thus helping to prevent the formation of blood clots.

Salicylates

Salicylates are compounds that inhibit blood clotting. Aspirin contains such compounds; however, a number of natural foods are rich in salicylates. Herbs and spices rich in this substance include curry, cayenne, paprika, thyme, turmeric, ginger, licorice and peppermint. Fruits high in salicylates include strawberries, oranges, grapes, raisins, prunes, blueberries and cranberries. Other food items high in salicylates include wine, vinegar, honey and cider.

Omega- 3 Fatty Acids

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Omega-3 fatty acids have blood-thinning properties, which help prevent strokes. Fatty fish is the main source of omega-3s and are found in anchovies, salmon, lake trout, herring and mackerel. Fish oil is also a rich source of omega-3s. Plant sources of omega-3s are flaxseed, sunflower seeds, canola oil, corn oil, safflower oil and soy. A 2007 study published in “Atherosclerosis” found that supplementation with 1.8g of omega-3s daily for two years led to a significant improvement in blood flow together with a decreased thickness of the arteries.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E, which is a blood thinner, is found in nuts such as walnuts, almonds and hazelnuts; vegetable oils such as canola oil, sunflower oil and palm oil; and in lentils such as chickpeas; oats; and wheat. A 2009 article in the “British Journal of Biomedical Science” discusses the blood-thinning effect of red palm oil together with other cardiovascular benefits of this oil, including inhibition of endogenous cholesterol synthesis, a reduction in oxidative stress and a reduction in blood pressure.

Alcohol

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Alcohol is a potent blood thinner. The mechanism of this appears to be via a reduction in platelet aggregation; reduction of fibrinogen levels, which is a blood clotter; and increasing fibrinolysis, the process by which clots dissolve. These, and other heart-related benefits of red wine, are discussed in detail in a 2010 article in "Seminars in Thrombosis and Hemostasis."

Foods to Avoid

Foods rich in vitamin K encourage blood clots and should be avoided by people susceptible to thrombosis. Foods rich in vitamin K include the green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, broccoli, lettuce and asparagus and some fruits, such as peaches and bananas.