Foods That May Help Improve Blood Circulation

There are several reasons why we suffer from poor blood circulation. These include a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, obesity, diabetes, high or low blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. With reduced blood flow, one may experience muscle cramps, coldness in the hands or feet, pain, numbness, and digestive issues.

Luckily, there are certain foods that can help us improve our blood flow. Check them out below.

Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper, fresh or dried, can help increase the metabolism rate and strengthen arteries and blood vessels. These effects are attributed to its stimulating medicinal properties. Add them into favorite salads and meals to reap its benefits.

Blackberries

Blackberries are extremely rich in beneficial nutrients that can help stimulate the formation of new blood cells and purify the blood. Consuming it is one of the best ways of improving blood circulation.

Simply consume a small cup of blackberries daily.

Avocados

Being rich in omega-3 fatty acids, avocados can support the cardiovascular system and increase blood circulation. These healthy fats are especially beneficial for circulation because they promote the release of nitric oxide, which dilates our blood vessels and increases blood flow. Moreover, omega-3 fats also help inhibit the clumping of platelets in the blood, a process that can lead to blood clot formation. These fats can also be found in fatty fish like salmon and mackerel.

Watermelons

Watermelons contain lycopene which is a natural antioxidant linked to improving circulation. Consume a bowl of cut watermelon daily to enjoy its benefits. We can also have tomatoes, apricots, and pink grapefruit as well.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a well-known spice with numerous health benefits. It has been found to be able to increase blood flow. In has been traditionally used to open blood vessels and improve blood circulation. Studies revealed that its active component called curcumin can help increase nitric oxide production, reduce oxidative stress. and decrease inflammation.

Onions

Since onions are an excellent source of flavonoid antioxidants, consumption of them can benefit our hearts. It improves circulation by helping the arteries and veins widen when blood flow increases. Aside from this, it also has anti-inflammatory effects that help reduce inflammation in arteries and veins thereby boosting blood flow and heart health.

Garlic

Garlic contains allicin, which possesses potent antioxidant properties that can help purify the blood and enhance blood supply and circulation. Moreover, this spice also has anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce levels of inflammation in the body.

We can add raw minced garlic to our favorite dish and consume daily or simply chew on garlic cloves directly.