In addition to the vitamin K-producing supplements mentioned in my last blog (Preventing Economy Class Syndrome: Nutrition), calcium supplements can also contribute to increased blood clotting. This is because it plays a role in the activation of prothrombin as a cofactor with Factor XIII, as well as in the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin. You may want to avoid taking a calcium supplement before a long-haul flight.

There are a great number of nutrients that work like anticoagulants (help prevent the blood from becoming too sticky or to clot less easily) in high doses. Some of these nutrients work by preventing platelets from sticking together, while others work by decreasing the blood levels of certain clotting factors or proteins. The net effect is referred to by most laymen as “blood thinning.”

Most doctors will recommend various forms of aspirin to prevent blood clotting. The best-known natural alternatives to aspirin are:

• Garlic oil
• Omega-3 EPA oils (flax seed oil, rice bran oil, cod liver oil, salmon oil, and many others)
• Wheat germ oil
• Primrose oil
• Black currant oil
• Olive oil
• Soybeans
• Sunflower seeds

Other well-documented ways to prevent DVT are:

• Vitamin E (400–800 IU daily)
• Ginkgo biloba
• Nattokinase
• White willow (a herb from which aspirin is manufactured)
• Bromelain
• Proteolytic (protein-dissolving) digestive enzyme supplements
• Witch hazel
• St. John’s wort (hypericum)
• Butcher’s broom

Most of these are available from your local health food store or supermarket. Since no two people are alike, the recommended effective amounts are highly variable. Discuss your individualized strategies to avoid “economy class syndrome” with your natural health care provider.

Dr. Zoltan Rona

Dr. Zoltan Rona