What is ‘Sticky’ Blood?
Monica Reinagel, MS, LD/N, CNS
Ask the Diva: What Does It Mean to Have “Sticky” Blood?
Q. In a recent newsletter, you mentioned that garlic helps reduce inflammation and keeps your blood from becoming too “sticky.” What happens when our blood becomes sticky?
Answer. “Sticky blood” is a way of describing platelet aggregation, which is the tendency of platelets in your blood to clump together. If you cut yourself, this property helps your blood form a clot that stops the bleeding.
But if your platelets are too sticky, they are more likely to form clots inside your blood vessels, which can cause a stroke or embolism. Garlic helps reduce the tendency of platelets to clump together, which can reduce this risk.
Related Content: Foods that Fight Inflammation
About the Author
Monica Reinagel is a board-certified licensed nutritionist, author, and the creator of one of iTunes’ most highly ranked health and fitness podcasts. Her advice is regularly featured on the TODAY show, Dr. Oz, NPR, and in the nation’s leading newspapers, magazines, and websites. Do you have a nutrition question? Call the Nutrition Diva listener line at 443-961-6206. Your question could be featured on the show.