Fish oil supplements have gained popularity for their numerous health benefits, especially for heart health. It is known to be derived from fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, these supplements are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, primarily Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA). One of the most notable benefits of omega-3s is their anti-clotting property, which plays a critical role in maintaining optimal blood flow and reducing the risk of serious cardiovascular events. Here’s how fish oil can support healthy blood flow and prevent harmful blood clotting.
To understand it through a doctor's lens, the editorial team of Onlymyhealth connected with Varsha Sharma, Senior Dietitian - Sharda Hospital and she explained how Omega-3s in fish oil helps to reduce the blood clotting risk. Here is what you need to know!
How Omega-3s in Fish Oil Reduce Blood Clotting Risk
Blood clotting is essential for preventing excessive bleeding after an injury, but when clots form within blood vessels, they can disrupt blood flow, leading to severe conditions like heart attacks, strokes, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Here’s how the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil support a healthy cardiovascular system:
1. Improving Blood Flow and Reducing Platelet Stickiness
Omega-3 fatty acids reduce the 'stickiness' of platelets in the blood, making them less likely to clump together and form clots. Platelets are cell fragments essential for clotting, but when they clump together at the wrong times, they can block blood vessels and cause serious health issues. Omega-3s have been shown to reduce this clumping, promoting smoother blood flow and lowering the risk of clots in arteries and veins.
2. Lowering the Risk of Heart Attack
Heart attacks are often triggered by clots that form in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. When these arteries are blocked, the heart is deprived of oxygen, resulting in a heart attack. "The anti-clotting effects of fish oil can help prevent these blockages, lowering the risk of heart attack, particularly in individuals with elevated cardiovascular risk factors," Sharma shared.
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3. Preventing Stroke
Strokes can occur when blood clots block vessels in the brain. By making platelets less sticky and reducing the risk of clot formation, omega-3s in fish oil can help prevent ischemic strokes, the most common type, claims study. "For individuals at higher risk of stroke, fish oil supplements can be an important component of a preventative strategy," she added.
4. Reducing Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a condition in which blood clots form in the deep veins, often in the legs. These clots can cause serious complications if they travel to the lungs, resulting in a pulmonary embolism. "Fish oil’s blood-thinning effects may help reduce the risk of DVT, especially in those prone to prolonged periods of immobility, such as during long flights or post-surgical recovery," explained Sharma.
5. Enhancing Blood Vessel Function
Omega-3 fatty acids have also been shown to improve the flexibility and function of blood vessels, allowing for smoother blood flow. By reducing inflammation in the arteries and promoting vessel health, fish oil helps maintain a healthy circulatory system, which further reduces the risk of clot-related complications.
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Important Precautions
Fish oil’s blood-thinning properties are beneficial for preventing clots, however our expert Sharma highlighted that they can also increase bleeding risk, especially if taken in large amounts. Here are some precautions to keep in mind:
Consult with a Healthcare Professional: If you are already taking anticoagulant or blood-thinning medications (such as warfarin or aspirin), consult your doctor before adding fish oil supplements. Combining them can enhance blood-thinning effects and increase bleeding risk.
Pre-Surgery: Fish oil can increase bleeding risk, so most doctors advise stopping fish oil supplements at least a week before any scheduled surgery.
Pregnant or Breastfeeding: While omega-3s are important during pregnancy, consult with a healthcare provider for safe dosage recommendations.
Final Thoughts
Fish oil supplements can be a powerful tool for preventing blood clotting and supporting cardiovascular health. Their anti-clotting properties, derived from omega-3 fatty acids, help reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other circulatory issues. However, while fish oil can provide significant benefits, it’s essential to use it wisely, especially if you are taking blood-thinning medication or have a bleeding disorder. Consulting a healthcare professional ensures you’re getting the right dosage and reaping the benefits safely.