Natural Ways To Improve Blood Circulation

#1

Increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of blood circulation through the body promotes a healthy, strong cardiovascular system. The cardiovascular system -- also called the circulatory system -- consists of the heart, the blood and complex networks of blood vessels called arteries, veins and capillaries. The circulatory system transports blood, nutrients and oxygen through the body and removes certain waste products.

Natural ways to increase blood circulation commonly involve lifestyle modifications that have been approved by a health-care professional.

Here are some simple ways to boost your circulation every day.

#2 Exercise regularly

A great way to give your circulation a little push is to exercise. I’m sure you’re familiar with the feeling of your heart “pounding” while working out. Well, this is exactly the effect we want when it comes to improving blood circulation.

Exercise makes your heart pump harder, pushing blood to all parts of your body. The movement of your muscles also squeezes and releases your vessels, helping blood to move. Aim to get around 30 minutes of exercise a day.

#3 Garlic

Garlic is a staple ingredient in European, American and Asian cuisine. It has a host of medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments. Researchers have found that people who consume garlic on a regular basis are more likely to have a better blood circulation. Garlic relaxes the blood vessels and interacts with the red blood cells, increasing the production of hydrogen sulfide. Increased production of hydrogen sulfide improves blood circulation.

Consuming raw garlic reduces the accumulation of low-density lipoprotein in the blood. It also raises good cholesterol in the blood, keeping the blood pressure within normal limits. It also prevents blood platelet aggregation.

#4 Ginger

Ginger is a highly regarded home remedy for a number of different ailments, but it could also help with poor circulation. Ginger contains antioxidant compounds gingerols and zingerone, which reportedly have a warming effect on the body that helps promote blood circulation. The great thing about ginger is that it’s easy to consume.

You can drink it in ginger tea, chew on a slice or two, or simply add it to your cooking. If the thought of chewing on raw ginger isn’t too appealing, you may be able to find it in pill form at many natural food stores.

#5 Drink plenty of water

One of the negative effects of dehydration is a reduction in blood flow. Drinking plenty of water is a great and cheap way to improve blood circulation naturally.

The Journal of Physiology reported that a lack of water affects blood flow. Researchers found that during exercising, blood flow to muscles decreases significantly if a person is dehydrated.9 This can lead to headaches, muscles aches, and fatigue.

Most experts recommend drinking 8-12 glasses of water a day. However, if you regularly exercise or live in a hot climate, you should increase your water intake to keep yourself properly hydrated. You should also watch your alcohol and caffeine intake as consuming too much can leave you dehydrated

#6 Eat Super Fruits

According Revitive, eating several different types of fruits can improve circulation.These include oranges and other fruits that are high in vitamin C.These types of citrus fruits are not only natural blood thinners but can also strengthen capillary walls.

Goji berries, which can look like raisins, can also help improve blood circulation because of their high fiber content.

Watermelon is another super fruit that can help as well.

Watermelon is high in lycopene, which has been linked to improved circulation.

#7 Dark Chocolate

Cocoa contains flavonoids which are naturally found in plants and fruits and have been linked to improving blood circulation, when compared with white chocolate with no flavonoids.

#8 Drink tea

Teas that are rich in antioxidants such as flavonoids, polyphenols and catechins can assist in the flow-mediated dilation of the arteries, which is indicative of arterial health, a study published in the journal Circulation reveals.

White, green and black tea all increase the blood’s antioxidant status and further studies suggest that tea can help prevent heart disease, too.

#9 Quit smoking

Quit smoking, if applicable. Not only is smoking bad for your health, it also affects your circulation. Nicotine usage is among the leading causes of circulation problems.

#10 Avoid Alcohols

While studies have shown that having a couple of drinks each day may actually be good for you, over consumption of alcohol can lead to a whole host of health problems, including heart disease. If your goal is to improve your circulation, you’ll want to limit your alcohol intake to 1 – 2 servings per day and when you do drink, reach for healthier choices like red wine which contains antioxidants and is known to improve cholesterol.

Also, try to avoid sugar alcohols (maltitol, sorbitol, etc) as most of these “calorie-free” sweeteners have an adverse effect on digestion which can in turn negatively impact circulation.

#11 Cayenne pepper

Cayenne pepper is one of the best spices for improving circulation, but it doesn’t stop there. This hot little number also boosts metabolism, helps your body to digest foods more efficiently, clears your sinuses, and adds pizazz to your food with its pretty red color.

#12 Eat Nuts

Eating a variety of healthy nuts is an excellent way to keep your blood circulating at optimal levels.

While nuts have an array of nutrients that improve circulation, they are particularly beneficial because they contain L-arginine, an amino acid that has been shown to relax blood vessels and increase blood flow.The nuts with the most L-arginine are easy to find.

Walnuts, peanuts, and almonds all contain high amounts.

For maximum health benefits, nuts should be eaten raw and without flavoring.

Once they are cooked, nuts tend to become more acidic and lose some of their nutritious properties.