Proper blood circulation or blood flow is essential for the body because it allows the transportation of nutrients and oxygen to cells.
However, what we eat is vital for blood flow because certain foods can promote healthy blood flow or circulation and help protect blocked arteries.
Poor blood flow or circulation is not a condition that can result from various other conditions. The common factors that cause poor blood flow may include obesity, diabetes, heart conditions, and arterial issues.
When certain foods are consumed, vasoconstriction and vasodilation occur because the properties of those foods help improve blood circulation.
Several foods significantly impact the body’s blood flow and circulation, reducing inflammation, helping dilate blood vessels, and decreasing plaque build-up in the arteries.
Here are some foods that may help improve blood circulation:
Beetroots are rich in nitrates, converted into nitric oxide in our bodies. Nitric oxide helps dilate the blood vessels, thereby improving blood circulation. Beetroots are a great source of dietary nitrates, relaxing our blood vessels and helps improve blood flow. This can also lower blood pressure, which is highly beneficial for heart health.
Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants. The antioxidants present in cinnamon help protect against oxidative stress. Antioxidants also help prevent damage to blood vessels. Healthy blood vessels are essential for optimal blood circulation. Cinnamon is a popular spice and important for better circulatory health. Cinnamon is rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce blood pressure and inflammation. Its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce inflammation and control blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides.
Pomegranates are rich in polyphenols, antioxidants, and nitrates. Consuming pomegranates in any form, such as juice, raw fruit, or supplements, helps improve blood flow. Pomegranates are packed with antioxidants that help maintain good blood circulation. Nitric oxide helps our blood vessels expand and relax, improving blood flow. Several studies suggest that pomegranates are effective in better oxygenating muscle tissue, which could especially aid individuals regularly exercising. Pomegranates are particularly high in polyphenol antioxidants and nitrates, potent vasodilators. Consuming pomegranate — as a juice, raw fruit, or supplement may improve blood flow.
Garlic and onions: Garlic contains sulphur compounds that help promote blood vessel dilation and enhance blood flow. On the other hand, onions are an excellent source of flavonoid antioxidants. They help our arteries and veins widen, facilitating smooth blood circulation. Both onions and garlic are full of health benefits. Garlic, in particular, has been shown to have blood-thinning properties, which help prevent clots and plaque formation that restrict blood flow. Similarly, onions contain flavonoid antioxidants, which can act as a natural blood thinner, preventing blood platelet aggregation and facilitating smooth blood flow.
Leafy greens: Vegetables like spinach and kale are excellent sources of nitrates. These compounds help widen blood vessels, improving circulation. Vegetables like spinach are packed with nitrates, like beetroot. When these nitrates turn into nitric oxide, it aids in expanding the blood vessels, thus improving blood circulation. Moreover, they are a good source of dietary fiber that can help maintain a healthy weight and lower the risk of heart disease.
Proper blood flow helps our organs function well. Therefore, to improve blood circulation, we must ensure that we add these foods to our diet. Click here to consult a nutritionist.
