The Alternative Health Gazette

Nutritional Approaches for Poor Circulation

Many PAD patients have high cholesterol levels. A heart-healthy diet low in saturated fat, trans fatand cholesterol can help lower blood cholesterol levels. Foods with omega-3 fatty acids appear to have some beneficial effects on peripheral arterial disease symptoms. Omega-3 fatty acids also assist in the treatment and prevention of coronary artery disease, and can be found in fatty cold-water fish, such as salmon, mackerel and herring. Smaller amounts are also in flaxseeds, walnuts, soybeans and canola oil. Reducing fat and sugar in the diet improves circulation because the blood is thinner, which allows it to flow through the small blood vessels more easily. When lowering the amount of sugar in your diet, be aware of high fructose corn syrup lurking in foods as a hidden source of sugar. Always check food labels to know what you are eating. Increasing fiber in the diet will also remove fats from the body and improve circulation even more.

Studies have shown that people who eat a lot of fruits and vegetables are the least likely to have blood clots in the veins (venous thrombosis). Eating one or more servings of fish per day can also protect the veins, but eating 1.5 or more servings of red or processed meats per day can double the risk. Research has also shown that people with diets high in folic acid, vitamin B6, and omega-3 fatty acids (such as those from fish) were more protected against clot formation than people who took in little to none of these specific nutrients.

Caffeine can contribute to heart problems as well. Heavy daily caffeine use (more than about four to seven cups of coffee) can cause restlessness, anxiety, irritability, muscle tremors, sleeplessness, headaches, nausea, diarrhea or other gastrointestinal problems, and abnormal heart rhythms. Ephedra, which has been banned in the U.S. as a dietary supplement, can still be present in some herbal teas. The dietary supplement has been known to increase risk of heart attack, stroke, seizures, and death. Therefore, you should be especially cautious of ephedra if you have PAD or other circulatory problems.

If you are overweight or obese and are trying to lose weight to help your arteries, remember that, like your mother told you, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It boosts the metabolism, helping you burn fat throughout the day. High fiber cereals and oatmeal are the best option, and any kind of fruit is always a good choice have two to get a good head start on your daily requirement. Oats are also good for reducing stress.

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