Are millions at risk? Blood thinner linked to stroke and heart attack

(NaturalHealth365)  Blood thinners are an integral part of post-surgery treatment, as well as just a daily part of the lives of millions of Americans who suffer from coagulopathies (clotting disorders).  While there are many long-standing blood thinners on the market, we want to focus on one in particular – Ticagrelor (Brilinta) – which was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2011 despite significant concern about its efficacy or the benefits of this drug over already existing anticoagulants.

Though many countries outside the U.S. approved the drug, trials in the U.S. showed that the medicine wasn’t as effective as Astra Zeneca indicated.  And though it is still a widely prescribed medication for clotting disorders, there is still a significant amount of concern over how effective and safe the drug is.

Let’s look at this extremely common drug, the claims against it, and how you can naturally help your cardiovascular health.

Was Ticagrelor’s FDA approval based on flawed data?

To gain approval from the FDA, a medication has to prove that it’s better than similar medications on the market.  This might be because it delivers similar results more cheaply, performs better, or includes something others do not (it does double duty).  Ticagrelor is not cheaper – it’s $450/60-day supply or more – so the crux of the argument for approval was that it was better than its cheaper competitors.

The trials didn’t reach the threshold for approval, and the drug was denied in 2010 but was approved in 2011.  Here, we reach the main concern: the initial trials have been accused of misrepresenting or manipulating data, resulting in unreliable results.

Subsequent independent trials indicate good cause for concern, citing difficulty replicating the so-called amazing results that Astra Zeneca reported initially.

Several whole foods and holistic compounds offer blood-thinning and cardiovascular benefits for those interested in a natural approach.

Turmeric/Curcumin

This powerful anti-inflammatory compound also has anticoagulant properties.  While using turmeric as a spice is beneficial, concentrated curcumin in supplement form is a more reliable way to access its effects.  Be sure to take it with black pepper, as its compounds enhance curcumin absorption.  Most supplements include both, but it’s important to check.

Lifestyle changes

Taking care of your overall health is crucial for proper blood clotting and cardiovascular function.  Daily exercise – at least 30 minutes – and regular movement like walking can help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, improve heart health, and regulate platelet function.

Sleep

Quality sleep ensures that blood cells function properly and supports blood vessel elasticity and heart health.

Whole foods over processed foods

Ultra-processed foods are linked to numerous health issues, including cancer, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, obesity, and insulin resistance.  A diet rich in whole foods – especially fiber-rich vegetables and fruits – can significantly benefit heart health.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Found in fatty fish like tuna and salmon, omega-3s support heart health, vessel elasticity, and brain function.  If fish isn’t a regular part of your diet, supplementing with fish oil, krill oil, or borage oil may offer additional benefits.

Herbal and natural supplements

• Ginkgo biloba promotes circulation and prevents platelet buildup.
• Garlic and ginger act as natural anticoagulants and reduce inflammation.
• Hawthorn berry strengthens the heart and improves blood flow.

Stress management

Chronic stress raises blood pressure, increasing the risk of stroke and heart attack.  Managing stress effectively is crucial for cardiovascular health.

Hydration

Proper hydration is key to preventing clotting issues.  Drinking water throughout the day and especially upon waking up can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.  Dehydration doesn’t directly cause heart attacks, but it is a significant contributing factor.

Get grounded

By having your feet touch the Earth, you can help to get rid of static electricity and other environmental electrical charges that surround you.  Studies show that grounding can increase the surface charge of red blood cells (RBCs); increase the spacing between RBCs to reduce clumping; and improve blood flow throughout the body.

Bottom line: investing in your health naturally is one of the best ways to keep your heart strong and reduce reliance on blood thinners like Ticagrelor.

Sources for this article include:

BMJ.com

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