A small blood clot can cause damage of vast proportions. But the risk of thrombosis can also be fought (indeed especially) at the table, removing strokes and heart attacks.
Too often behind an ischemic event hides a wrong lifestyle.
A change in eating habits helps to take cover. Here is the menu that keeps our vases in shape.
Mediterranean diet
It is scientifically proven: a diet that can reduce the risk of thrombosis is based on fruits, vegetables, olive oil, fish. That is the classic Mediterranean diet.
Rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals, it is a panacea for our arteries. And, according to the most recent studies, some foods are more suitable than others. Let’s see them in detail.
| Vegetables and fruits rich in folic acid | This vitamin (contained mainly in lettuce, spinach, strawberries, kiwi) seems to be able to reduce the amount in the blood of homocysteine, amino acid cataloged among the proinflammatory substances that increase the risk of thrombi |
| Lots of fibers | Wholemeal pasta and bread, supply us with fiber, which slows down fat absorption; Whole grain oat flakes are also Useful, especially in the morning: they help lower bad cholesterol. |
| Fish at will | Consuming it at least three times a week halves the risk of cerebral thrombosis. Especially oily fish contains fatty acids omega-3s, which exert positive effects on platelet function avoiding clots. |
| Extra virgin olive oil | Contains antioxidant polyphenolic compounds able to counteract lipid oxidation involved in the pathogenesis of many diseases degenerative |
A glass of wine, or rather two
The right dose of wine, or the classic two glasses a day, protects against thrombosis. Probably through decreased levels of fibrinogen and coagulation factor VII.
Even in those who have already had a stroke or heart attack, moderate wine intake reduces the risk of new events by 20%.
Green tea, coffee and chocolate
That green tea was indicated to combat atherosclerosis has long been known: its powerful antioxidant effect inhibits the oxidation of LDL cholesterol in the arteries.
In addition, those who consume two, three cups a day of this drink have higher levels of good cholesterol, another factor that prevents the risk of thrombi.
Some Italian and Norwegian studies have also included coffee and dark chocolate in the list of “good”. Five or six cups of coffee a day would be able to reduce the risk of venous thrombosis by 35%.
Dark chocolate, on the other hand, has an anti-inflammatory action, exerting positive activity on the endothelium, and would also be able to increase the antiplatelet effect of acetylsalicylic acid.
Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.
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