Loading up on these foods may help circulation and stave off the tingling, numbness, or muscle cramps which can result from poor blood flow.
Good circulation is vital to your heart health
Circulation is essential for a healthy, functioning body. If you have poor blood flow, it causes symptoms like numbness, pain, and muscle cramps, among others. And science shows there are several different causes for poor circulation including peripheral artery disease, diabetes, obesity, and more. Although medication is often recommended to treat circulatory issues, adding these foods to your diet could help improve your blood flow too. Of course, it’s best to first discuss this with your doctor before making any dietary changes, especially if you’re currently taking heart disease medication.
Dark chocolate
Have you been wondering how to improve your blood flow? You might consider eating chocolate, says Steven Gundry, MD, a cardiologist who is the director and founder of the International Heart & Lung Institute as well as the Center for Restorative Medicine in Palm Springs and Santa Barbara, California. “In moderation, dark chocolate is a fantastic addition to your diet,” he says. “Dark chocolate is shown to help your body produce nitric oxide, which plays an important role in protecting your heart and veins.” Cocoa contains antioxidants that may help manage blood pressure and cholesterol and improve blood flow. Dr. Grundy advises choosing dark chocolate that’s at least 72 percent cocoa.
Turmeric
Turmeric, also known as “the golden spice of India,” is a gem for keeping arteries unclogged and improving blood flow, thanks to the chemical curcumin that gives it its color. According to Dr. Gundry, however, turmeric is a tricky spice: “It’s actually poorly absorbed on its own unless it is mixed with Bioperine, a compound found in black pepper.” His solution: Eat curry once a week, which contains both black pepper and turmeric.
