WHAT TO EAT IF YOU WANT TO STRENGTHEN BLOOD VESSELS AND PREVENT BLOOD CLOTS FROM FORMING IN THE FIRST PLACE
Blood clots are a serious health threat: one American dies from them every six minutes. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot in a large vein in the leg or arm, can block blood flow and lead to life-threatening conditions such as pulmonary embolism.
While anticoagulants are a common treatment, citrus fruits may also play a role in preventing blood clots.
The high vitamin C content and anticarcinogenic properties of this fruit offers many health benefits in addition to its delicious taste.
JustCBD fitness expert Natalie Komova recommends incorporating citrus fruits into your diet to reduce the risk of harmful blood clots.
Komova suggests that you can strengthen your blood vessels and reduce the risk of blood clots by including citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits in your diet.This fruit is rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that strengthens blood vessels and prevents damage to their walls, ultimately reducing the chance of blood clots.
"This may reduce the risk of a blood clot forming in the first place."
In addition, citrus fruits contain flavonoids, which are plant compounds that have anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant properties. These flavonoids can help reduce inflammation in the body, which reduces the risk of blood clots.
The expert's claim is supported by research published in the Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences. The study aims to know the effect of lemon on different blood parameters and coagulation.
Previous evidence suggested that this yellow fruit has anti-coagulant and anti-clotting properties. The study used both in vitro and in vivo methodology, meaning it was performed in both a controlled environment, such as a test tube or petri dish and on living organisms, which lends even more credibility to his findings.
During the in vivo phase, lemons were administered to healthy rabbits at three different doses: 0.2 ml/kg, 0.4 ml/kg, and 0.6 ml/kg. The dose of 0.4 ml/kg showed the most pronounced effect and resulted in prolonged bleeding time and thrombin activation.Studies have found that lemon reduces fibrinogen levels and inhibits platelet aggregation, the process by which platelets combine to form blood clots. Scientists have found that lemons contain an "antithrombin factor" that prevents the formation of blood clots. Since this is a life-threatening condition, immediate medical attention is important. Here are the main symptoms to look out for in DVT (arm or leg) - Seek immediate medical attention if any of the following symptoms occur:
swelling of the arm or leg; pain or tenderness that is not due to an injuryWarm skin with swelling or pointedness of the skin with swelling or pain (pulmonary) - If you notice any of the following symptoms seek medical attention immediately: Difficulty breathing chest pain that worsens with deep breathing coughing up blood faster than normal or irregular heartbeat is important to remember that blood clots can be safely treated once they are diagnosed.
Beets
This root vegetable is rich in nitrate, which the body can convert into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide helps to naturally relax blood vessels and improves blood flow to tissues and organs. Researchers have found that beet juice can also lower systolic blood pressure (the first number in a blood pressure reading).
Berries
Berries are rich in antioxidants, including one that is especially good for blood vessels: anthocyanin. It's the compound that gives red and purple fruits their deep color. Anthocyanin can help protect the walls of your arteries from damage and prevent them from becoming stiff. Anthocyanin also stimulates the release of nitric oxide, which lowers blood pressure.
Fat fish
If you've ever wondered why fish is good for your heart, here's one reason. Oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, trout, herring and halibut are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Studies suggest that these compounds are good for your circulatory system. Eating fish not only lowers your resting blood pressure, but it can also help keep your arteries clear and unclogged.
Pomegranates
The tiny, juicy, red seeds inside the pomegranate are rich in nutrients, especially antioxidants and nitrates. These can stimulate circulation. They dilate (dilate) blood vessels and lower blood pressure. That means more oxygen and nutrients get to your muscles and other tissues. And for active people, better circulation can also bring a performance boost.
Garlic
Garlic isn't only good for keeping vampires away. It contains a sulfur compound called allicin that helps relax blood vessels. Studies show that blood flows better in people who eat a diet rich in garlic. This means the heart doesn't have to work as hard to move blood around the body, which helps lower blood pressure.
Walnuts
Nuts, especially walnuts, are all the rage. These crunchy nuts are rich in alpha-linolenic acid, a type of omega-3 fatty acid that can promote blood flow. One study found that regular consumption of walnuts over an 8-week period improved blood vessel health, helped keep blood vessels elastic, and lowered blood pressure.
Grapes
They help keep arteries healthy and improve blood flow -- while tasting naturally sweet. One study found that the antioxidants in grapes encourage blood vessels to relax and work more efficiently. Grapes also inhibit inflammation and other molecules in the blood that could make it sticky, which can impede blood flow.
Citrus
Vitamin C isn't the only reason you should include citrus fruits in your diet. The antioxidants found in the fruit can help reduce inflammation, prevent blood clots, and improve circulation. And if you're a fan of orange juice, you're in luck. One study found that regular consumption of orange juice lowers blood pressure.
Spinach
Foods containing nitrates, such as spinach, can improve blood flow. These compounds help dilate blood vessels and create more space for blood to flow. A study also found that a diet rich in spinach helps keep arteries flexible and lowers blood pressure.
Turmeric
This golden-yellow spice is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, largely due to the compound curcumin found in turmeric. Studies suggest that curcumin can boost the production of nitric oxide, which helps dilate blood vessels. This allows blood to flow more easily and reach muscles and other tissues.