Blood Circulation
You’re able to read this post because your circulatory system is actively working. It is one of the most important systems needed by your body to function and without it, you will not exist.
This goes to tell you that the function of your circulatory system should be something of great importance to you.
The cells of your organs need oxygen to produce the energy needed to function. Your brain which ultimately controls all the existing systems that make you a human being also needs oxygen to function.
Dietary and lifestyle choices sometimes affect us negatively by inhibiting the normal function of the heart, veins, arteries, capillaries and valves. All components of the circulatory system.
The good news is, just as food especially fatty foods and food rich in salt can mess up our body’s circulation, there are certain foods that when consumed can also boost your circulation. These foods and their roles will be discussed further in this article
Effects and symptoms of poor blood circulation
First of all, what do we mean by good blood circulation? It is when your heart, veins and all other organs responsible for blood flow are carrying blood in their right quantities, in the right composition and at the right rate. Simply put vital organs that exist within your body are supplied with enough oxygen and nutrients needed to operate.
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How would you know that your blood circulation is poor?
Here are some signs that your body will give off to tell you that your blood circulation is poor.
- Cold hands and feet: If your hands and feet often feel cold to the touch, it could be a sign of poor circulation. This happens because blood is not reaching your extremities effectively.
- Numbness or tingling: If you experience numbness or tingling in your hands, feet, or other body parts, it could be a sign of poor circulation. This happens when nerves are not receiving adequate blood flow.
- Swollen feet or ankles: If your feet or ankles appear swollen, it could be due to fluid accumulation caused by poor circulation.
- Fatigue or weakness: Poor circulation can make it difficult for your body to deliver oxygen and nutrients to your muscles. This can lead to feelings of fatigue or weakness.
- Slow-healing wounds: If you have wounds that are slow to heal, it could be a sign of poor circulation. This happens because blood is not effectively delivering the necessary nutrients and oxygen to the affected area
Foods that boost your circulation
Improving circulation is essential for maintaining good health, as it ensures that your body’s organs and tissues receive the oxygen and nutrients they need to function properly.
Some medical conditions that have been linked to poor blood circulation are Diabetes, Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), Raynaud’s Disease, Varicose Veins, Hypertension and Atherosclerosis.
Here are seven research-proven foods and juices that can help boost your circulation:
- Beetroot juice: Beets are rich in nitrates, which your body converts into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide helps to relax and widen your blood vessels, improving blood flow and circulation. Drinking beetroot juice regularly has been shown to lower blood pressure and improve exercise performance.
- Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids, which are natural compounds that can help improve blood flow and reduce inflammation. Eating a small amount of dark chocolate each day can help to promote healthy circulation.
- Garlic: Garlic has natural blood-thinning properties and can help to reduce the risk of blood clots. It also contains compounds that can help to widen your blood vessels and improve circulation. Adding garlic to your meals or taking garlic supplements can help to promote healthy circulation.
- Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits are high in vitamin C, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood vessels. Vitamin C helps to promote collagen production, which helps to strengthen and maintain the elasticity of your blood vessels.
- Leafy greens: Leafy greens like spinach and kale are rich in nitrates and other compounds that can help to improve circulation. They are also high in antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow.
- Ginger: Ginger has natural blood-thinning properties and can help to improve circulation by reducing the risk of blood clots. It also contains compounds that can help to relax your blood vessels and improve blood flow.
- Turmeric: Turmeric is a spice that has natural anti-inflammatory properties and can help to improve circulation by reducing inflammation in your blood vessels. Adding turmeric to your meals or taking turmeric supplements can help to promote healthy circulation.
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It’s important to remember that while these foods and juices may support healthy circulation, they should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment for circulatory conditions. If you have concerns about your circulation, it’s important to speak to a doctor.
In conclusion, circulation is something that we shouldn’t take for granted. Although it is affected by our diet and lifestyle, we can counter the negative effect of poor circulation by making the right dietary and lifestyle choices.