Poor blood circulation is almost always a symptom for an underlying condition, such as atherosclerosis or high blood pressure, which inhibits blood flow to all parts of the body. According to the book "The China Study," the best way to ensure a healthy circulatory system is to eat primarily a low-fat, plant-based diet of whole fresh foods and to eliminate unhealthy fats and refined sugars. Some of the most effective foods for improving blood circulation include the following.
Purified Water
Even though we don't normally think of water as a food, the University of Michigan's new "Healing Foods Pyramid," (see Resources) lists water at the base of the pyramid as the most essential nutrient. According to the book "Water for Health, for Healing, for Life," blood is normally about 94 percent water when the body is fully hydrated. However, many people suffer chronic dehydration and thus have thick blood, which significantly restricts blood flow. Drink at least ½ oz. of water per pound of body weight daily for adequate hydration.
Healthy Fats and Oils
The primary benefit of healthy fats for circulation is that they can help reduce inflammation throughout the entire cardiovascular system. According to NaturalNews.com, olive oil and rice bran oil are good choices for cooking. They also recommend sesame and coconut oil for salad dressings and grape seed oil for baking. Other good sources of healthy fats include wheat germ, nuts and seeds, especially pumpkin and sunflower seeds.
Fresh Fruits
All fresh fruits contain enzymes and key nutrients that are beneficial for improving circulation. Many fruits are high in antioxidants, which neutralize free radical damage in the veins and arteries. The best antioxidant fruits include oranges, grapefruits, acerola cherries, blueberries, goji berries, raspberries and strawberries. Watermelons are high in lycopene, which can help prevent plaque buildup and ensure healthy circulation.
Fresh Vegetables
Fresh vegetables and vegetable juices provide a wide array of vitamins, minerals, bioflavonoids and antioxidants that also help with circulation, lowering LDL cholesterol and strengthening capillaries. Some of the best vegetables for circulation include carrot, beet, kale, spinach, onions and endive, as well as sea vegetables such as dulse and kelp.
Spicy Foods
One of the quickest ways to increase blood flow is to eat spicy foods. The most effective spicy foods to boost circulation are hot peppers, such as jalapeno or cayenne. According to NaturalNews.com, cayenne has long been used for promoting good cardiovascular and circulatory health. If you have never eaten fresh cayenne, start off by mixing just 1/16 of a teaspoon of cayenne powder in a full glass of fruit juice and drinking.
References
- Prescription for Nutritional Healing; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2000
- The China Study; T. Colin Campbell, PhD; 2006
- Water for Health, for Healing, for Life; F. Batmanghelidj; 2003
