A scientifically balanced diet can help prevent and support the breakdown of blood clots. Below are foods that help improve circulation and reduce the risk of thrombosis.

Blood clots occur when small thrombi form inside blood vessels. If not controlled in time, they can lead to serious complications such as heart attack and stroke.

According to Nguyễn Trung Hái, a traditional medicine practitioner and Vice Chairman of the Scientific Council of the Central Association of Vietnamese Traditional Medicine, using foods correctly is a safe and natural approach to maintaining healthy blood circulation and protecting blood vessels.

He recommends six types of foods, commonly used in both traditional medicine and modern nutrition, that can help prevent and effectively reduce blood clots.

Blood clots are silent killers that can cause stroke. (Illustrative image)

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Garlic

Garlic contains allicin, a natural anticoagulant that helps prevent platelet aggregation and reduces the risk of clot formation. Eating raw garlic or garlic soaked in honey each morning can help maximize its benefits.

Ginger

Ginger is a warming herb in traditional medicine that promotes blood circulation and dispels cold. It helps dilate blood vessels, improve blood flow, and reduce blood viscosity, thereby supporting anti-clotting effects. Drinking warm ginger tea in the morning is especially beneficial for people with cold hands and feet or poor circulation.

Fatty Fish

Salmon and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help lower triglycerides, improve blood vessel elasticity, and inhibit blood clot formation. Eating fatty fish 2–3 times per week can significantly reduce the risk of heart attack.

Tomatoes and Onions

Tomatoes and onions are rich in lycopene and quercetin, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds help cleanse blood vessel walls and reduce blood thickness.
Additionally, curcumin in turmeric inhibits clotting factors while providing strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Turmeric

Turmeric helps improve blood circulation and supports the breakdown of small blood clots. It can be consumed as fresh turmeric, turmeric powder, or mixed with honey for daily use.

Green Tea

Drinking green tea, especially in the morning, is highly beneficial. Green tea contains EGCG, a powerful polyphenol that helps reduce bad cholesterol, prevent blood clotting, and protect against arterial blockage.

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Mr. Nguyễn Trung Hái emphasizes that no matter how beneficial foods may be, individuals with a history of blood clotting disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications must strictly follow their doctor’s treatment plan and should not replace medication with food.

Combining a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and stress management is the most effective way to prevent blood clots at their root.

The foods mentioned above are supportive measures only and do not replace medical treatment in serious clotting conditions such as stroke, pulmonary embolism, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

People taking blood-thinning medications should consult their doctor before making dietary changes, especially when consuming foods high in vitamin K, such as leafy green vegetables. Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, drinking enough water, and having routine health checkups are the best ways to prevent and control the risk of blood clot formation.