Brain health and good blood flow are dependent on exercise, healthy lifestyle choices and a diet rich in important vitamins and minerals. Among some of the key vitamins for the brain and heart are vitamins B, C, D and E. These vitamins play a role in improving and maintaining vascular health so that your circulation remains healthy and your blood flow to the brain remains unimpeded to reduce your risk of stroke. If you plan to take vitamins in supplement form, consult your doctor first.
Vitamin C
Among vitamin C's many benefits is its role in the synthesis of collagen, a protein that is an important part of blood vessel construction, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant, which is a substance that protect cells from damage from unstable molecules called free radicals. In addition, individuals with healthy levels of vitamin C have a lower risk of heart attack and stroke.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is well known as an essential nutrient in helping the body absorb calcium. It is also necessary in helping the body maintain a healthy balance between calcium and phosphorus in the bloodstream. In addition, the Office of Dietary Supplements reports that Vitamin D is also vital in helping nerves in the brain transmit messages to nerves throughout the body. Vitamin D can be found in dairy products and fish. But if you try to get vitamin D from dairy products, opt for lowfat or nonfat products to limit the amount of saturated fat and calories in your diet. In addition, your body makes vitamin D when it is exposed to the sun's ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. The amount of time you should spend in the sun to get an adequate amount of vitamin D depends on your location and the time of year.
B Vitamins
Vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid can help control your level of homocysteine, an amino acid associated with a higher risk of heart disease. Homocysteine can damage the coronary arteries and aid in the clumping together of platelets in the bloodstream and the formation of clots. Clots that travel to the brain or get lodged in an artery carrying blood to the brain can lead to a stroke. Good sources of B vitamins include potatoes, bananas, fortified cereals, garbanzo beans, beef and fish.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is another antioxidant associated with improved cardiovascular health, according to the American Family Physician. You may even have been prescribed extra vitamins E and C if you have had heart surgery or any cardiac procedure. Vitamin E acts as a blood thinner, however, so if you are taking a medication such as warfarin, you should talk with your doctor about taking even a multivitamin that contains high levels of vitamin E. Good sources of vitamin E include walnuts, almonds and brown rice.
