Blood is the fluid that delivers oxygen and nutrients to the heart, lungs, muscles, and other organs in the body. Almost 7% of human body weight comprises blood that travels via the veins. A healthy adult would have 4.5-5 litres of blood, this varies depending on factors like age, sex, weight, and total well-being of the person. Good blood flow augments the supply of oxygen and nutrients throughout the system. Blood plays a significant role in regulating body temperature, combatting harmful pathogens and infections, and carries out several other critical operations.
Poor blood circulation is a common problem caused due to several health conditions which include peripheral artery disease (PAD), diabetes, obesity, smoking, and certain genetic disorders. Loss of appetite, pain, muscle cramps, numbness, indigestion, digestive issues, fatigue, skin discoloration, brittle hair and nails, and coldness in the hands and feet are some of the symptoms associated with poor blood flow.
Some of the lifestyle modifications that can help improve blood circulation include:
Quitting smoking, as tobacco is a risk factor for several chronic diseases and also impede blood circulation.
Regular physical activity stimulates blood circulation and helps improve vasodilation.
Managing healthy body weight is vital, as overweight or obesity negatively hampers blood flow and leads to plaque deposits in arteries.
Eating a wholesome diet comprising fibre rich foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains can improve circulatory health.
Proper hydration is essential for all aspects of health, including good circulation.
Beat stress by practising yoga, meditation or spend time in nature to feel relaxed and energized. As studies have proven that stress can significantly elevate blood pressure and hamper health.
Besides these factors, the food you eat can greatly impact circulation and increase blood flow and also enhance exercise performance and speeds up the recovery process. A wholesome diet can boost blood circulation without medications, feeds your body with all nutrients it needs and also helps the organs work as a well-tuned machine.
Read through this article to know about some of the best foods that improve blood circulation and overall well-being.
Top 5 Foods To Augment Blood Flow And Complete Health:
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is bestowed with powerful phytochemical called capsaicin that renders spicy flavour. It functions by stimulating blood flow to the tissues by reducing blood pressure and also promotes the release of nitric oxide and other vasodilators that assist in enhancing blood flow easily via the veins and arteries by relaxing the muscles in blood vessel walls. Studies reveal that these spicy peppers increase circulation, promotes blood vessel strength and avert plaque deposits in arteries.
Pomegranate
The red-eyed, juicy, sweet pomegranates abounds a host of polyphenols, antioxidants and nitrates that are powerful vasodilators. Incorporating pomegranate as whole fruit, juice or supplement may stimulate blood flow and delivers oxygen to all tissues.
Also Read: Is Pomegranate Good For Diabetics? Discovers Its Amazing Health Benefits
Cinnamon
Cinnamon, the aromatic and warming spice comes with an impressive nutrient profile that has myriad of healing health benefits. It works amazingly well in increasing blood flow, dilates blood vessel and improve circulation in the coronary artery that delivers blood to the heart. Furthermore, refreshing cinnamon tea can significantly reduce blood pressure and augments cardiac health.
Garlic
Garlic is highly valued herb for its beneficial impact on improving blood circulation and heart wellness. Each pod of garlic is endowed with vast reserves of plant compounds and antioxidants, which exhibit potent medicinal properties. Allicin, the sulphur compounds in garlic increase tissue blood flow and control blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and also averts the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Also Read: Turmeric: 5 Splendid Wellness Incentives Of This Wonder Spice
Turmeric
Turmeric is one of the most powerful herbal ingredients in Ayurveda and traditional medicine valued for its umpteen therapeutic properties. The active ingredient curcumin possesses strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics that open blood vessels and enhance blood circulation. Studies also reveal that curcumin in turmeric increases nitric oxide secretion, combat oxidative stress and reduces inflammation.Additional Foods For Bolstering Overall Wellness
Saffron: Harvested by hand, saffron is one of the world's most expensive spices. The herb contains components that fight cancer cells, decrease swelling, promote blood flow, and fight free radicals. It also aids in relieving arthritis symptoms, supports heart health by lowering cholesterol levels, and may even help in managing mood disorders like depression. Saffron also acts as an aphrodisiac, reduces appetite, and aids weight loss.
Ginger: Gingerol, the bioactive compound in ginger, exhibits strong anti-nausea and anti-inflammatory effects. It can alleviate digestive issues such as indigestion and nausea, bolster immune functioning reduce muscle pain, and soreness, and may help to increase blood flow in the body.
Fenugreek: Fenugreek seeds contain compounds like diosgenin, which have been shown to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin function, making it beneficial for individuals with diabetes. Additionally, fenugreek may aid in digestion, induce the flow of blood, reduce appetite, and promote milk production in breastfeeding mothers.
References:
- Role of Dietary Antioxidants in the Preservation of Vascular Function and the Modulation of Health and Disease
Abbott Nutrition, Columbus, OH, United States, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Davis Heart & Lung
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5671956/
2.https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/foods-that-increase-blood-flow