Proper blood flow throughout your body is an important factor in achieving optimal health. In individuals with a normal and healthy circulatory system, it takes less than one minute for blood pumped from your heart to travel to all your body's cells, notes the Kids Health website. Certain foods may be helpful in boosting your blood flow, although you should always speak with your doctor before using diet and nutrition to help improve your circulation.
Poor Circulation
Poor blood flow, or circulation, is a common health problem among Americans and may be caused by numerous factors. Possible causes of reduced blood flow throughout your body include heart failure, atherosclerosis, insufficient exercise, smoking, unmanaged stress, certain chronic health conditions and a poor diet. Circulation problems, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, are among the most common causes of serious foot problems in diabetics. Poor circulation prolongs the healing time for ulcers, sores and blisters throughout your body, especially your lower extremities.
Beneficial Foods
Certain dietary inclusions and exclusions may be beneficial in treating your circulatory problems and increasing blood flow throughout your body. According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," consider increasing your consumption of high-fiber foods, such as oat bran, as well as brown rice, bananas, peas, pears, onions, spinach, lima beans, garlic and endive. Eliminating the following foods, beverages or substances from your diet may also be helpful: animal protein, fatty foods, coffee, cola, sugar and white flour.
A Helpful Food
Garlic may be one of the most helpful foods in improving blood flow throughout your body. Dr. Alan R. Gaby, a medical doctor and author of "The Natural Pharmacy," notes that garlic has historically been used in treating numerous cardiovascular ailments, including atherosclerosis -- a common cause of reduced blood flow. Garlic helps support your cardiovascular system and may be helpful in treating elevated triglyceride and cholesterol levels and hypertension. The principal active ingredient in garlic is a substance called allicin. Always consult your physician before using garlic for medicinal purposes.
Warning
Poor blood flow throughout your body may indicate an underlying health problem that requires the attention and care of a qualified health care provider. To better understand the risks, benefits, limitations and role of diet and nutrition in treating your poor circulation, schedule an appointment with your doctor, or another medical professional who specializes in clinical nutrition. Further scientific scrutiny may be required to assess the true efficacy of certain foods historically used to improve your circulation.
References
- Kids Health: It's Great to Circulate
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Foot Problems
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "The Natural Pharmacy"; Alan R. Gaby, M.D.; 2006
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