Blood Thinners

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Dear Dr. Meletis,

Hello, I am contacting you about a condition that my recent blood test says I have and it is called Factor five. My brother had a clot last year and he has the same and they gave him Coumadin® and they want him on it forever. I am scheduled to see a hemotologist next week, and I have no clot that I am aware of, but is there anything else I could take in lieu of Coumadin. My family doctor just said to take a low dose aspirin and then made me an appointment to see a specialist and maybe I’m jumping the gun but I do not want to be on Coumadin.

Mr. K.

Dear Mr. K.,

Thanks for the question. The standard accepted care for many clotting disorders or risk of clots is indeed Coumadin. Therefore, since this is the standard that is medically and legally accepted, an alternative cannot be offered. Yet, in general to help control the risk of clots in the average population, you are already aware of aspirin. Also there are the supplements known as Nattokinase, such as Natto 3X, and Turmeric. These help target fibrinogen (a clotting component) and can assist in keeping blood thinner. Clearly, staying well hydrated is essential; 2 liters of water per day or other clear non-caffeinated fluids. Also garlic is routinely used as well, along with Vitamin E, Ginkgo and other supplements.

Note, if you do a lot of air travel or take long trips, getting up and stretching every hour is important.

The information shared here is educational and is not intended as either diagnosis or treatment. Working closely with your personal health care provider is always essential.

Chris D. Meletis, ND