How to Have Good Blood Circulation

If the heart is the pump that keeps the engine -- the body -- running efficiently, the blood vessels are also part of the mechanism. The circulatory system does just what it says, circulates blood all through the body. Those blood vessels include arteries, which take oxygenated blood around the body; veins, which carry the blood back to the heart; and the many smaller blood vessels, the capillaries. There are many lifestyle changes people can make to improve the circulation. All the organs in the body, including the brain will benefit from these efforts.

Instructions

• 1

  Take regular aerobic type exercise at least three times a week. This should be at least twenty minutes' duration, but you can build up to this. Exercise that causes slight breathlessness stimulates the circulation, and also helps to maintain a healthy weight. Obesity and inactivity are strongly associated with heart disease.

• 2

  Eat food that contains omega 3 fatty acids. Aim to eat at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables daily. Include proteins such as chicken, eggs and fish, as protein is needed to maintain healthy cells. Use garlic and cayenne pepper in your cooking, as these are known to benefit the circulatory system. Use extra virgin olive oil in cooking.

• 3

  Incorporate relaxation into your daily life, in the form of hobbies or yoga. Stress can cause the peripheral blood vessels to become constricted. Give up smoking if you are a smoker, as this seriously impairs circulation. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Aim to have a good night's sleep, as this helps reduce stress and enables cell repair.

• 4

  Visit your physician to have specific tests if you are over 40, have a family history of heart problems, or if you experience any worrying symptoms such as breathlessness, chest pain or tingling in your hands and feet. Ask to have your blood pressure and cholesterol levels checked. High blood pressure can indicate fatty deposits in the blood vessels, and may need treatment.