Nutrient Fix for Deadly "Orphan Condition"
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted March 24, 2023
Venous thromboembolism is what I call an “orphan condition.” The chances are high that you’ve never even heard of it before.
But we should discuss it more often because it’s underdiagnosed, SERIOUS, and preventable.
A (VTE) happens when a blood clot forms in a vein. When that clot is in a DEEP vein (usually in the lower leg, thigh, or pelvis), this is called deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
VTEs and DVTs can be deadly.
But now new research reveals a major contributing factor to these killer clots can easily be fixed, SLASHING your risks.
VTEs can form when you sit for a long time, such as on a plane, or because of physical restrictions that keep you from moving around.
If that blood clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, heart, or brain… it can become deadly.
As many as 600,000 VTEs occur every year in the United States alone. And once you’ve had one, you’re very likely to develop another.
Now new research confirms LOW vitamin D levels drive up the risk of VTEs.
But according to the study published in the journal Nutrients, RESTORING those low D levels can send your risk PLUMMETING.
The meta-analysis combined data from 47,648 patients. When the researchers crunched the numbers, they found that having HEALTHY vitamin D levels SLASHED the risk of developing a VTE by a whopping 74 percent.
The scientists aren’t sure yet WHY D makes such a huge impact. But they have some good hunches.
Chances are the vitamin’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties combine to protect the insides of your veins. Plus, vitamin D has natural blood thinning effects.
But don’t stop with D. You can cut your risks for blood clots even further:
- Get up and move around every half hour or so.
- Do some simple leg exercises when seated for a long time. (The National Blood Clot Alliance has some examples here.)
- Wear loose-fitting clothing and drink lots of fluids when you know you’ll be sitting.
VTEs are almost entirely preventable. Now that you’re aware of the threat, you can take steps to slash your risk.
P.S. When blood vessels become less flexible, your heart has to work harder, causing blood pressure to climb. But there’s a downright delicious and surprisingly simple solution. CLICK HERE for the details.
Source:
“Circulating Vitamin D Status Associated with the Risk of Venous Thromboembolism? A Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies.” Nutrients 2023, 15, 1113. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15051113
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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