Circulation diet: which foods are included in it?

Proper blood circulation is essential for the optimal function of the various organs and the body.

However, sometimes, this may get impaired for several reasons. But luckily, certain foods assist in the improvement of blood circulation. Which these foods should be included in the circulation diet?

Blood circulation and its importance

Blood circulates in our bodies. It goes to every part of the body. The arteries take oxygen and nutrients to the cells of the organs.

And the veins bring back the dissolved carbon dioxide and waste products from the cells to the lungs, liver, and kidneys respectively for removal from the body.

To function optimally, circulation has to be good. But often for multiple reasons including aging, plaques form in the blood vessels that hamper the free flow of blood in them.

This leads to ischemia and health problems and diseases. Here comes the role of the Circulation diet. It is important to normalize blood flow to the organs. But which foods assist blood circulation?

Foods in circulation diet

Cayenne Pepper is red and adds spice and flavor to our food. But it does other functions as well in the body. It has capsaicin that keeps the arteries fit.

It relaxes the arterial walls and this improves circulation and lowers blood pressure. Beets are dark pink vegetables that are rich in nitrates. The body converts the nitrate to nitric oxide.

And nitric oxide is a vasodilator. It expands the blood vessels thereby improving circulation. They lower systolic blood pressure too.

Similarly, berries have lots of antioxidants including anthocyanin. This prevents arterial thickening. It also induces the release of nitric oxide which is useful for good circulation.

Fatty fish such as tuna, salmon, trout, herring, and mackerel have omega-3 fatty acids that lower resting blood pressure and keep arteries unclogged. Pomegranate seeds also have high amounts of nitrates and antioxidants that boost circulation.

Other circulation-friendly foods

Garlic has a sulphur-containing substance named allicin. This relaxes the blood vessels. Therefore, blood flow is easier and heart-pumping efforts are lessened.

Walnuts have alpha-linolenic acid. This is a type of omega-3 fatty acid. These fatty acids make blood flow smooth. And blood vessels regain their elasticity.

Grapes are an instant source of energy. They also aid blood vessel dilation. They reduce inflammation. This decreases the stickiness of blood. This blood flows smoothly.

Read more: Beetroot juice: benefits for heart, liver, gut, and skin!

The age-old turmeric has curcumin in it. It has anti-inflammatory properties and releases nitric oxide as well. Both help free blood flow. Similarly, spinach is rich in nitrates.

These nitrates relax the blood vessels and reduce blood pressure. Citrus fruit has a lot of antioxidants along with vitamin C. They help in blood vessel relaxation and improve blood circulation.