Unless you have numbness in your fingers or toes you probably don't give your circulatory system a lot of thought.  However, the blood that flows through the highways and byways of your circulatory system provides the billions of cells throughout your body with the oxygen and nutrients they need to function.  Poor circulation can deprive your muscles and organs of these critical nutrients.  Poor circulation can also be a precursor to a heart attack, stroke, or even amputation.

The good news it that you can optimize blood flow and enhance every system in your body with a healthy diet. Avoiding overly-processed foods that are filled with sugar and artery-clogging trans fats is a smart choice.  Here are a few healthier choices that can help enhance your blood flow.

-Avocado: It contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants that support healthy arteries.  

-Cold-water fish: It offers a hefty dose of omega-3 fatty acids that can tame systemic inflammation throughout the circulatory system and help prevent blood clots.  Pick wild caught options such as anchovies, herring, salmon, sardines, trout, or tuna and aim to eat at least three 5-ounces servings per week. 

-Dark chocolate may seem like a diet buster, but this sweet treat is packed with flavanoids that help reduce blood pressure, decrease LDL oxidation, and boost endothelial function.  

-Pomegranate juice: During a study of 45 volunteers conducted by the Preventative Medicine Research Institute and California Pacific Medical center in San Francisco, this tart juice was found to increase blood flood 17 percent in just 90 days.  

-Herbs and Spices: They not only add flavor to foods, they can also rev up your circulation.  The fab four include cayenne, garlic, ginger, and turmeric.  As a bonus, these warming herbs and spices may also protect blood vessels from tissue damage. 

-Seeds: Especially sunflower and pumpkin seeds are rich in Vitamin E, which has been shown to help prevent clotting and improve blood flow. These super seeds also provide powerful antioxidants that discourage LDL oxidation and protect endothelial tissue from damage along with assisting in the production of red blood cells.

-Tomatoes: They are rich in lycopene, which is a natural antioxidant linked to healthy circulation. Research shows that these red fruits prevent platelet aggregation and blood clots that can lead to thrombosis.  to unlock this powerful compound, make sure to cook your tomatoes first. 

Amazing Wellness 2014