Every area of our body is crossed by a vast network of arteries, veins, and capillaries. Blood circulates within the blood vessels, and through it, oxygen and all nutrients taken in with food are transported to all the various organs and tissues of our body.

The slowing of blood circulation, which can be mild in some cases and manifest as slight numbness in the lower limbs, can be accompanied by swelling, sometimes pain, and in more severe cases lead to the formation of varicose veins.

Different causes can contribute to circulatory problems: primarily inadequate physical activity, overweight, poor diet, and smoking. Physical movement is of fundamental importance, so it is recommended to walk briskly for at least 30-45 minutes a day.

The choices we make at the table, whether at home or out, are also essential to positively affect the blood microcirculation and our circulatory system.

 

Foods that are good for blood microcirculation

Let's see in detail which foods are indicated to protect blood circulation and at the same time exert marked anti-inflammatory activity.

• Blueberries, currants, blackberries: contain anthocyanins, molecules capable of mimicking fasting conditions and favorably acting on the expression of aging genes. Some research has shown that about 300 grams per day of blue-violet and red fruits in the diet of obese subjects can reduce LDL cholesterol levels. This action promotes the strengthening of the structure of all blood vessels, improving the elasticity of their walls.
  
  
• Grapes: in addition to anthocyanins, also contain flavonoids, very useful for eliminating free radicals that attack and damage the cells of our body.
  
  
• Avocado: is rich in monounsaturated fats, which help control the risk of hypertension, preserving our brain from the risks of this disease. Thanks to its natural richness in fatty acids, avocado ensures the absorption of vitamin K and fat-soluble vitamins present in dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, chard, or kale.

• Oranges and lemons: it is known that citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C and polyphenols, elements that tone blood vessels and at the same time contribute to the elimination of free radicals. Vitamin C is essential for the synthesis of collagen, a protein that plays structural and supporting effects not only on blood vessels but on the entire dermis.
  
  
• Salmon: rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, essential for the health of the cardiovascular system. Wild salmon is always recommended over farmed salmon to avoid ingesting a considerable amount of mercury or other heavy metals.
  
  
• Pumpkin seeds: contain a lot of vitamin E, which prevents blood clots, keeping blood flow free and smooth.
  

• Dark chocolate: has strong antioxidant and stimulating properties, thanks to the percentage of caffeine it contains, which stimulates endorphins, promoting a good mood. It also contains flavonoids, which reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
  
  
• Ginger: in Chinese medicine, it is considered a miraculous spice for its numerous properties. In fact, it is very useful for the cardiovascular system: both as a vascular tonic and as a digestive, analgesic, and decongestant. It is also a valuable helper in combating aging. Asian medicine has for centuries considered ginger as a "warm" spice that stimulates circulation, counteracts vomiting, has antispasmodic effects, and is antiseptic and anti-bloating. Chinese culture considers the ginger root, containing essential oil, starch, and gingerols, an effective Yang element, which strengthens the masculine energies of fire and vitality.
  
  
• Tamari Bancha Tea: is a tea rich in calcium and iron, with marked digestive properties, rich in vitamins A and C and niacin. Drinking a cup of this tea is a good habit, useful for relieving fatigue and stimulating circulation.

In general, when our diet is rich in bread, pasta, refined sugars, rapidly absorbed starches, saturated and unsaturated fats, it favors the onset of so-called acidosis. This term refers to an excess of toxins in the blood that leads to the development of numerous problems, including: colitis, gastritis, candidiasis, cellulite, overweight, and fatigue. The consumption of fruits and vegetables, rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, is instead particularly recommended to keep our circulation active and our capillaries strong.