There is a lot of evidence linking zinc to blood clotting. Zinc is released from cells called platelets that control blood clotting, and scientists have found unwanted blood clots can form when zinc levels in the blood are faulty.
According to MayoClinic.com, zinc may increase bleeding risk; hence, people suffering from bleeding disorders or taking medications that may increase bleeding risk should be wary of using zinc supplements and consult their health care providers regarding adjusted dosing.
Zinc is found in cells throughout the body. It helps your immune system fight off invading bacteria and viruses. Your body also uses zinc to make DNA (the genetic material in cells) and proteins. During pregnancy, infancy, childhood, and adolescence the body needs zinc to grow and develop properly.
Zinc can not cause blood clots, however diminished levels of zinc in your blood can lead to increased risks of blood clotting if left unchecked.
The researchers found that zinc affects the muscles, endothelial cells, and sensory nerves together, reducing the amount of calcium in the muscles and causing them to relax. This, in turn, results in increased blood flow and lower blood pressure.
Vitamin D has been shown to have an anticoagulant effect.
Bleeding disorders: Magnesium seem to slow blood clotting. In theory, taking magnesium might increase the risk of bleeding or bruising in people with bleeding disorders.
The myth that fish oil is a blood thinner started back in the 1970s. It stems from the fact that omega-3 fatty acids can interact with platelets [5], which are blood cell fragments that facilitate blood clotting. While fish oil may help prevent blood clots [6], it doesn't do so by thinning the blood.
Vitamin K helps to make various proteins that are needed for blood clotting and the building of bones.
Do not take zinc supplements if you take amiloride. Blood pressure medications, ACE Inhibitors -- A class of medications called ACE inhibitors, used to treat high blood pressure, may decrease the levels of zinc in your blood.
Zinc supports a number of functions in the human body. As well as supporting the immune system, it enables the body to make proteins and DNA, contributes to wound healing, and plays a role in childhood growth and development. It also has antioxidant properties.
Your body doesn't need a large amount of zinc. The recommended daily allowance for adults is 8 - 11 mg. It's common to have slightly low levels of zinc, but taking a multivitamin, plus eating a healthy diet, should give you all the zinc you need.
Natural Aids in Thinning Blood
Some herbs and spices that contain salicylates (a natural blood thinner) include cayenne pepper, cinnamon, curry powder, dill, ginger, licorice, oregano, paprika, peppermint, thyme and turmeric. Meanwhile there are fruits that can aid in blood thinning.
Olive oil might slow blood clotting. Taking olive oil along with medications that also slow clotting might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.
Garlic acts like a blood thinner. Too much garlic can increase your risk for bleeding during or after surgery. It may also interact with blood-thinning medications. People with ulcers or thyroid problems should ask their doctors before taking garlic.
Ginger. A steeping cup of ginger tea has an amazing potential to work as a natural blood thinner. Acetylsalicylic acid, derived from salicylate works like aspirin that helps in preventing stroke. The presence of salicylate compounds in foods such as ginger, garlic, berries, and chillies help in blood from clotting.
Potassium is essential for the body's ability to contract a muscle, including the heart muscle. Adequate levels of potassium decrease blood clotting capability for some, depending on certain factors and other enzymes.
Iron , magnesium, and zinc may bind with warfarin, potentially decreasing their absorption and activity. People on warfarin therapy should take warfarin and iron/magnesium/zinc-containing products at least two hours apart.
Bleeding disorders: Magnesium seem to slow blood clotting. In theory, taking magnesium might increase the risk of bleeding or bruising in people with bleeding disorders. Diabetes: Diabetes increases the risk for magnesium deficiency. Poorly controlled diabetes reduces how much magnesium the body absorbs.
Vitamin K has a blood-thinning effect in the human organism. The vitamin inhibits blood clotting and can prevent diseases such as thrombosis and strokes. Vitamin K2 is found in many animal as well as plant foods. Through a healthy diet, vitamin K2 should be included in the daily diet.
One of cinnamon's components, coumarin, is an anticoagulant. These agents prevent blood clots from forming, according to the American Heart Association. Talk to your doctor if you're taking blood thinners and you want to add cinnamon to your diet.