Intermittent Fasting Could Be a Game-Changer for Blood Clot Prevention

Blood clots can pose serious health risks, leading to complications such as heart attacks, strokes, and blockages in the lungs. A recent study published in Life Metabolism examined how intermittent fasting might reduce these risks by affecting blood clot formation.

Researchers conducted experiments on 160 human participants, along with mice and human blood samples. Their findings suggest intermittent fasting inhibits platelet activation, a key process in blood clot formation. This effect is linked to the increased production of a gut metabolite called indole-3-propionic acid (IPA).

Platelets are small blood cells that play a crucial role in clotting. When activated, they clump together, forming clots. While clotting is essential to stop bleeding, excessive clot formation can cause severe health issues. The study found that intermittent fasting reduces platelet activation, helping to lower the risk of harmful blood clots.

The research involved two groups of participants—one following intermittent fasting and the other eating freely. Blood samples were collected before and after ten days of intervention. Mice were also studied under similar conditions. The results showed that fasting participants and mice had reduced platelet activation and clot formation.

Further investigation revealed that the key factor in this process was IPA. Participants and mice who fasted had higher levels of this metabolite in their blood. Additional tests confirmed that IPA directly inhibits platelet activation. When mice were given IPA injections, their clotting time increased, resembling the effects of a commonly used blood thinner.

Researchers also explored the connection between gut health and blood clotting. They found that mice practicing intermittent fasting had higher levels of a gut bacteria species that produces IPA. When mice were treated with antibiotics, the fasting-related benefits on clotting were significantly reduced. This highlights the role of gut bacteria in regulating blood clot formation.

The study also examined how fasting affected mice experiencing restricted blood flow to the brain and heart, followed by restoration of circulation. The fasting mice had better outcomes, suggesting potential benefits for stroke and heart attack recovery.

While these findings are promising, the study has some limitations. The human trial lasted only ten days, leaving questions about the long-term effects of intermittent fasting on blood clotting. Additionally, the study focused on a specific fasting method, so it is unclear if other fasting patterns would yield similar results.

Gut bacteria play a crucial role in this process by producing indole-3-propionic acid (IPA), which prevents excessive clotting

More research is needed to confirm these findings and explore their clinical applications. Researchers suggest that intermittent fasting could be a lifestyle-based strategy to reduce cardiovascular risks, particularly for individuals prone to heart disease or stroke.

Beyond blood clotting, intermittent fasting has other potential health benefits. It is associated with improved gut health, weight management, and better control of diabetes and inflammation. Experts recommend pairing fasting with a healthy diet rich in fiber, vegetables, and probiotics while avoiding processed foods and unhealthy fats.

The study opens the door for future research on the link between fasting, gut health, and cardiovascular disease. While intermittent fasting shows promise, individuals should consult their doctors before making dietary changes, especially those with existing health conditions.