Grayson
Are your fingers and toes feeling a bit cold? Do you sometimes experience numbness or fatigue? Poor circulation could be the culprit. Fortunately, the solution might be as close as your kitchen. The right foods can help increase blood flow, improve circulation, and boost overall health. So here is our list of the top 15 foods that will get your blood pumping in no time!
Beets
Thanks to their high nitrate content, beets are a powerhouse for boosting blood flow. When you consume beets, your body converts nitrates into nitric oxide, a compound that relaxes vessels and improves circulation. Beets also contain betalains, which have anti-inflammatory properties that support cardiovascular health. Whether you juice, roast, or toss them into a salad, beets are a delicious way to better your blood flow.
Cayenne Pepper
Spice up your diet with cayenne pepper, which contains capsaicin—a compound that helps to dilate vessels and betters circulation. Capsaicin also promotes the release of nitric oxide and other vasodilators that expand vessels and increase blood flow. Make sure you add a little cayenne pepper to your meals to enjoy its benefits. Just be sure to start with small amounts if you’re not accustomed to spicy foods!
Dark Chocolate
Indulge in dark chocolate to give your blood flow a sweet boost. Rich in flavonoids, dark chocolate improves circulation by stimulating nitric oxide production in the arteries. It relaxes the arteries and enhances blood flow. Cocoa content should be at least 70% for maximum advantages.
Citrus Fruits
Oranges, lemons, grapefruits—citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that aids in strengthening the vessels and improving circulation. Vitamin C also aids blood vessel health by producing collagen. Additionally, the flavonoids in citrus fruits reduce inflammation and promote blood flow.
Garlic
Garlic isn’t just great for warding off vampires but also for your blood flow. Allicin, a sulfur compound found in garlic, increases blood flow by relaxing vessels and lowering blood pressure. Regular consumption of garlic can enhance the dilation of blood vessels and promote smoother blood circulation.
Fatty Fish
Salmon, mackerel, and other oily fish contain plenty of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s help decrease blood viscosity, making blood flow through your veins easier. They also cause inflammation and lower blood pressure. Eat fatty fish at least two times a week to improve your circulation and support heart health.
Turmeric
Famous for its bright yellow color and earthy taste, turmeric contains curcumin—a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and blood-thinning properties. Curcumin helps to improve blood flow by enhancing the function of the endothelium, the lining of your vessels. Turmeric can prevent blood clots and promote better circulation. Add turmeric to curries, soups, or smoothies for a healthful kick.
Pomegranate
Pomegranates are loaded with polyphenols and nitrates, which help to dilate vessels and enhance circulation. These antioxidants also reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which can impair blood flow. Drinking pomegranate juice or eating the seeds can significantly boost flow to various body parts, including muscles and the heart.
Nuts and Seeds
Packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, nuts & seeds are heart heroes. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and omega-3s, abundant in them, improve blood flow. Plus, magnesium helps blood vessels relax, further boosting circulation.
Ginger
In ancient times, ginger was regarded as a natural remedy for various problems, including poor circulation. It contains gingerol, a compound that helps to relax vessels and improve blood flow. Ginger generally supports your cardiovascular health due to its antioxidant properties.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens are packed with nitrates, which convert into nitric oxide in your body. This compound relaxes vessels and enhances circulation. Aside from being rich in antioxidants and vitamins, leafy greens also contain minerals and vitamins that support overall heart health.
Berries
The antioxidants found in berries, such as anthocyanins, reduce inflammation and improve blood flow. These antioxidants also strengthen capillaries and protect against vessel damage. You can snack on berries, mix them with smoothies, or top cereals to give your circulation a fruity boost.
Watermelon
This summer staple packs a powerful punch with an amino acid called citrulline. Once processed by the body, citrulline converts into nitric oxide. This compound helps relax blood vessels, improving blood flow. Plus, watermelon’s over 90% water content keeps you hydrated, another key to smooth circulation.
Tomatoes
The antioxidant lycopene in tomatoes enhances flow by preventing plaque buildup in the arteries. Additionally, lycopene lowers blood pressure and helps decrease inflammation. Cooking tomatoes increases their lycopene content, so enjoy them in sauces, soups, and stews to maximize their benefits.
Cinnamon
Not only is cinnamon a tasty spice, but it also has numerous health benefits. It helps to dilate vessels and decrease blood pressure, enhancing blood flow throughout the body. Cinnamon’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties also improve your heart health.
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