7 Foods That Are Proven to Increase Blood Flow
Eating the right foods can help improve blood flow and circulation. Foods that are known to increase blood flow include dark leafy greens, berries, nuts and seeds, fatty fish, garlic and turmeric, cruciferous vegetables, avocados, citrus fruits, oats, and whole grains. Together with exercise, eating these nutrient-rich foods may help reduce the risk of heart disease or stroke.
Poor circulation is a common condition that can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like fatigue, cold hands and feet, and difficulty concentrating.
Although medications can be used to improve circulation, there are also natural ways to help increase blood flow. Certain nutrients in food can act as vasodilators, which relax the arteries and helps to lower blood pressure. Eating these foods regularly can also help to keep your cholesterol levels balanced and reduce plaque buildup in your veins. This article will explore the top foods that naturally improve blood flow. Let’s get started.
1. Pomegranate
Pomegranate can increase blood flow. Studies have found that pomegranate is an effective vasodilator, meaning it can cause the blood vessels to widen and improve blood circulation. In particular, regular consumption of pomegranate raw fruit, juice, or even supplement has been linked to better cardiovascular health outcomes, like lower cholesterol levels, reduced blood pressure, and improved functioning of the heart muscle.
2. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is known for its ability to stimulate blood circulation and help promote overall cardiovascular health. The active ingredient, capsaicin, dilates the blood vessels and increases circulation, which improves the body’s capacity to transport oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Studies have shown that regular consumption of cayenne pepper can increase blood flow, lower inflammation, and even reduce plaque buildup in the arteries.
3. Onions
Onions are rich in sulfur-containing compounds that help to reduce inflammation and improve circulation. Research indicates that onions increase the body’s production of nitric oxide, which helps dilate the blood vessels and increases blood flow. Eating onions regularly can be an excellent way to maintain cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation and improving circulation.
4. Garlic
Garlic has long been known to have several heart-healthy benefits. Due to its high levels of allicin – a compound that can help prevent plaque buildup in the arteries and increases blood flow to muscle tissue. In addition to promoting blood flow, garlic also contains powerful antioxidants that can help lower blood pressure.
5. Beets
Beets are another food that helps with blood flow due to their nitrate content – a natural chemical that has been proven to improve circulation by dilating blood vessels and making it easier for oxygenated blood to reach tissues. As a bonus, beets also contain folate, manganese, and vitamin C!
6. Celery
Celery is great for snacking but did you know they’re also able to improve circulation? That’s because they contain phytosterols – natural compounds found in plants that can help relax the arteries naturally and make it easier for oxygenated blood to reach vital organs. Aside from phytosterols, celery also contains vitamin K, which is important for keeping your blood flowing properly.
7. Dark Leafy Greens
Leafy greens like kale, spinach, Swiss chard, and collard greens are packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as minerals like iron and magnesium that can help support healthy blood flow. Additionally, these dark leafy greens are high in nitrates which relaxes blood vessels and improves circulation.
Also Read: 5 Best Tea for Blood Circulation
Final thoughts
Eating foods that can help increase your blood flow and circulation is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. By incorporating some or all of the foods mentioned in this article into your diet, you may experience better heart health. If you have any questions about which foods are best for improving your blood flow and circulation, it’s best to consult with your doctor or nutritionist for more information.
Learn More: 10 Ways to Improve Your Blood Circulation
