Wednesday, July 14, 2010

How to Prevent Blood Clots Naturally

Certain foods can help to prevent blood clots naturally. Some of those foods that can prevent blood clots are garlic, ginger and salmon


Blood clots are the result of long periods of inactivity. People who travel by air or car for long periods are prone to blood clots. Blood clots can form in any part of the body and travel to the brain to cause a stroke. They can also cause heart attacks. Whenever we cut our skin blood oozes out. When we press and hold it blood coagulates and the bleeding stops. But the blood has to be in liquid form inside the body. Blood clot is also known as thrombus. Heredity is also an important factor in the formation of blood clots. Some people are more predisposed to blood clots than the others. People with varicose veins have greater chance of a blood clot than the others.


One of the precautions to be taken by people who are predisposed to have blood clots is that they have to keep their legs at a higher level when they sleep by raising the bottom posts of their beds or keeping pillows below their feet. Compressions stockings are a good blood clot remedy. They put pressure on the veins and help in reducing the chances of a blood clot. If a blood clot moves to lungs it is indicated by shortness of breath or pain. The drugs used in dissolving a blood clot are Heparin and Warfarin.


Garlic for Blood Clots


Garlic is a herb which is commonly used in Indian cooking. It has several medicinal properties. It contains two chemicals allicin, a natural antibiotic and ajoene. These two chemicals help to reduce the blood cholesterol levels. It is also a natural blood thinner which helps the prevention of clots. Three cloves of garlic should be taken every day.


Ginger for Blood Clots

Ginger is common herb which is used in Indian cooking. This has several medicinal properties. The root of the plant helps to reduce blood cholesterol levels. It also removes the plaque inside arteries, reducing the chances of a blood clot.


Omega-3 Fatty Acids


Fish like salmon and mackerel contain omega-3 fatty acids. Including these foods in your diet, helps to prevent blood clots. Flax seed and walnuts are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids


Regular exercise and moderate diet are also recommended. Eat plenty of vegetables, fruits and other foods with high fiber content. Foods rich in vitamin C are also very useful. Quitting smoking and reducing obesity are also very important. Drinking plenty of water is a must.


Other blood clot remedies are foods which are rich in salcylates like cinnamon, dill, turmeric, licorice and peppermint. Fruits rich in salcylates are oranges, strawberries, blueberries, grapes and raisins also help to prevent clots.

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