If you want to give your heart the best atmosphere to pump blood to all your vital organs, you’ll want to prioritize circulation.
The less resistance that blood faces moving through your body, the better chance you have of avoiding a severe cardiovascular event like a heart attack or stroke.
Regular exercise is a key component of good circulation. When your body is moving, your heart is pumping blood. It can help relax veins and arteries and ensure all your organs are getting what they need.
If you haven’t exercised in a while or have existing heart problems, talk to your doctor before including activity in your lifestyle. You don’t want to overdo it out of the gate and put yourself at risk.
Staying hydrated can also help with circulation. Having enough water can reduce the thickness of blood, so it moves through blood vessels with less resistance.
Eating a nutrient-rich diet can also help with circulation. Fruits and vegetables loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can help reduce inflammation and contribute to healthy veins.
These foods are also high in fiber, which contributes to better blood flow.
On the other hand, processed and high-sugar foods can cause plaque to accumulate along arterial walls and make blood flow much more difficult.
Avoid sitting for too long. The longer you sit, the more likely blood will pool in your blood vessels. Try to stand up and move around for at least five minutes every hour.
Drinking in moderation can also help with circulation. Too much alcohol – more than one or two standard drinks per day – can contribute to rigid blood vessels.
Try to include more healthy fats in your diet. Foods like avocado, olive oil, nuts, and fatty fish can boost good “HDL” cholesterol, which can help remove plaque buildup along arterial walls that hardens veins and arteries.