A number of supplements may assist the prevention of blood clots. However, before taking supplements to prevent blood clots, talk to your physician about your current state of health. A supplement that acts much like a blood thinner can prove dangerous for some and trigger erratic changes in circulatory system functions.
The body is a carefully tuned machine, much like your car. With proper levels of oil, your vehicle functions perfectly; too much or too little and you start to get problems. The same is true of anything you put into your body.
Supplements to prevent blood clots
Blood clots form for a number of reasons. Sometimes blood can clot because of an injury, you don’t drink enough water, or you’re taking certain medications. Maybe you’ve just had surgery or you just don’t get enough exercise and blood flow is sluggish. A number of supplements can improve circulation. Some of these supplements include:
- l-carnitine – strengthens the heart muscle
- chlorophyll – enhances circulation and promotes healthy cell development
- CoQ10 (coenzyme Q 10) – improves oxygenation of tissues and may facilitate removal of toxic substances from the body
- Vitamin B1 enhances circulation and brain function and vitamin B12 aids optimal red blood cell development and may help lower blood pressure. Vitamin B complex is beneficial for fat and cholesterol metabolism
- calcium – important for normal blood viscosity
- magnesium (working with calcium and vitamin D) – strengthens heartbeat and improves calcium utilization
Should I take supplements for improve circulation?
While supplements may be recommended on occasion, self-diagnosis is discouraged. Poor circulation is commonly caused by sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and lifestyle habits such as poor nutrition or smoking.
However, circulatory diseases or illnesses may increase the risk of developing blood clots. While some health risks are more serious than others in regard to blood clot development, it’s always important to discuss concerns with your physician before taking supplementation.
Some supplements negatively interact with the disease process or prescribed medications. Dosage recommendations for supplements also differs among individuals based on gender, weight, and the purpose for which they’re being taken.
If you believe you may be at risk for developing blood clots and are considering supplementation, do your homework and discuss your concerns with your physician.
