Foods that increase blood viscosity
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High-Fat, High-Sugar, and High-Salt Diets and Blood Viscosity
Research shows that diets high in fat, sugar, and salt can increase blood viscosity. These unhealthy dietary patterns are linked to higher blood thickness, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. The mechanism involves chronic inflammation and changes in the blood, such as increased fibrinogen and red blood cell aggregation, which make the blood thicker and slower to flow 123.
Fat Consumption and Blood Viscosity
Consuming large amounts of fat, especially in single meals, can cause the blood to become more viscous. This is due to increased red blood cell aggregation and changes in blood properties after high-fat meals. Over time, a diet high in fat can contribute to higher blood viscosity and related health risks. Conversely, switching to a low-fat diet can help reduce blood viscosity in people who previously had high levels .
Foods and Diets That May Lower Blood Viscosity
Some studies have found that certain foods and dietary patterns can actually decrease blood viscosity. For example, vegetarian diets, dried-bonito broth, and onion–olive-oil capsules have all been shown to improve blood fluidity and reduce plasma viscosity in healthy individuals. These findings suggest that plant-based foods and specific functional foods may help keep blood viscosity at healthy levels .
Blood Viscosity, Fibrinogen, and Haematocrit
Increased blood viscosity is often linked to higher levels of fibrinogen (a blood protein involved in clotting) and a higher haematocrit (the proportion of red blood cells in the blood). Diets that raise these factors, such as those high in fat and processed foods, can make the blood thicker and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke .
Conclusion
Foods that increase blood viscosity are mainly those high in fat, sugar, and salt. These dietary patterns can lead to chronic inflammation, higher fibrinogen, and increased red blood cell aggregation, all of which make the blood thicker and raise the risk of cardiovascular problems. On the other hand, plant-based diets and certain functional foods may help reduce blood viscosity and support better health 1235.
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