Proper blood circulation is vital in order for your body to work correctly. If blood circulation is poor it can have profound effects on your health; diseases such as atherosclerosis (narrowing of arteries), cardiovascular issues, problems with veins and capillaries and high blood pressure to name a few. Medications and maintaining a healthy weight can help with certain conditions . Diet is vital to healthy blood circulation and there are many foods that can assist blood flow.
Fruits
Fruits with bioflavonoids can aid circulation and blood flow. Fruits with bioflavonoids can include apricots, prunes, oranges, cherries, grapefruits and lemons. Bioflavonoids can be found in non-fruit items such as green and black tea, onions, soy and red wine. Other fruits that can aid in circulation are melons. They are also rich in lycopene, which can help prevent plaque that can form in the arteries and inhibit healthy blood flow. Many of these fruits also contain vitamin C, which strengthens the capillary walls helping circulation.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts contain terolsin along with niacin and folate, which is heart-friendly and is a variety of omega fatty acids. Nuts can also reduce cholesterol which promotes healthy circulation and is heart smart. Pumpkin and sunflower seeds help blood flow smoother and prevent clotting. Moderate nut and seed consumption, meaning a small handful five days a week can act as a blood thinner and help blood vessel flexibility and blood flow.
Spices
Spices are an integral part of our diet. Author James Duke Ph.D., who wrote the book "Green Pharmacy," suggests that spices not only make our foods taste better, but certain spices added to our foods can also enhance blood circulation. The beneficial properties of cayenne pepper and ginger root are known to help with blood circulation by stimulating the heart and increasing proper blood flow. The chemical gingerol, which prevents cells from clotting, helps blood circulate. Garlic helps decrease plaque buildup and can naturally thin blood and improve blood circulation. Cinnamon has a history for being both a medicine as well as a spice. One of the compounds found in cinnamon is called cinnamaldehyde, which has an effect on blood platelets and prevents them from clumping together improving circulation.
References
- Natural News
- Women Republic
- The Green Pharmacy Guide to Healing Foods, James A. Duke, Ph.D., 2008
