Foods for better circulation

Blood is known to carry oxygen to the brain. It also carries hormones released by the endocrine glands and carries them to the body parts that need them.
Signs of poor blood circulation include; pain in legs and feet, fatigue, aching and heavy legs, swollen ankles and feet, memory loss, cold limbs, numbness in certain parts of your body, frequent dizziness and headaches and others.
According to Dr Francis Ssali a haematologist, the following foods, combined with daily physical exercise, can help improve blood circulation as each of them contains certain properties that can contribute towards healthy circulation.

Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruit are the best low sugar, anti-inflammatory foods. He says, “Despite being acidic on the exterior of the body, they help in alkalizing the body and are outstanding internal body cleansers because of their Vitamin C content.”
He adds that, “Citrus fruits are easy to digest so they are a good option for those sensitive to higher fructose fruits. They are natural blood thinners, strengthen capillary walls and prevent plaque build-up thereby warding off poor circulation.”

Green tea
Green tea has great medicinal value and known to improve the function of the cells that line the capillaries. Drinking green tea may reduce the risk of some diseases including cancer and heart disease.
Drinking green tea on a daily basis may also protect persons with coronary artery narrowing and those who are at a risk of a stroke because it improves blood flow.

Garlic
Garlic is known to boost circulation beside its antiseptic and antibiotic effects. This makes it a great herb to take every day in food. It lowers blood pressure for many people. This is because it widens the blood vessels to allow the blood to circulate more freely.
Garlic also makes blood platelets less likely to clump. Clumping is what causes clotting and thereafter strokes and heart attacks. Taking garlic daily will help to reduce this risk.”

Ginger and blood
Compounds such as gingerols and zingerone contained in ginger have a warming effect in the body, resulting in good blood circulation. It can be eaten raw or added to food but it is better to boil sliced ginger in water to make ginger tea.