4 Foods to Boost Blood Circulation and Cell Count

4 Foods to Boost Blood Circulation and Cell Count

A balanced meal plan is essential for overall health and wellness, promoting good blood circulation and maintaining a healthy number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Feeling tired and sluggish could be a sign that the body is not getting the nutrients it needs to keep up the blood cell count. To help improve their energy levels and overall well-being, one should add nutrient-dense foods into meals that can boost blood count.

Blood count and circulation
A healthy blood count (normal number and types of blood cells in the body) and blood circulation are essential for the body to function. Good blood circulation helps oxygen reach all organs, increasing energy production and reducing fatigue. Meals are one of the most important factors in regulating a healthy blood count and circulation, as nutrients derived from food, such as iron, magnesium, and folate, play key roles in the process. Exercise is also essential for improving circulation since muscles require oxygenated blood for energy. Maintaining a healthy blood count can benefit overall health and well-being in the following ways:

Improved immune function : A normal blood count can help support the immune system, which can help prevent infections and diseases.

Better wound healing : Having the right number of platelets can support faster healing of wounds, cuts, and bruises. This also encourages blood circulation to provide the necessary nutrients and oxygen for the healing process.

Reduced risk of anemia : Anemia develops when the body does not have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to tissues. A healthy blood count can reduce the risk of anemia.

Improved cardiovascular health : A healthy blood count can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, as it supports the proper functioning of the cardiovascular system.

Foods to improve blood circulation
Spinach
Spinach is a superfood that helps keep up normal blood count and circulation. It is rich in nitrates, which help increase circulation by relaxing and dilating the blood vessels. This helps in moving oxygenated blood throughout the body, improving overall health. Additionally, spinach is high in iron, which is essential for producing hemoglobin and red blood cells in abundance and of good quality. Spinach also contains potent antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin that help improve blood circulation. The leafy green is also known for its high folate content, which helps the red blood cells function properly. High levels of these key components are required for optimal body function, providing adequate energy to the cells. Regular intake of raw or cooked spinach can significantly improve blood count and circulation.

Beans
Beans are packed with nutrition and are key ingredients in many recipes around the world. Not only are these legumes full of fiber and protein, but they are among the top foods to improve blood count and circulation. Eating beans allows one to get the goodness of vitamins (such as vitamins B and K) and minerals (such as copper and magnesium). Magnesium helps improve the oxygenation of cells, and iron helps increase red blood cell production. In addition, beans can promote proper circulation as they are loaded with folate, which has been linked to reducing elevated homocysteine levels in the blood. High levels of homocysteine may indicate vitamin deficiency and an increased risk of stroke and heart disease, among other complications. Further, potassium, found in certain types of beans, is known to help regulate the pressure in arteries. The fiber in beans traps cholesterol-containing acids from returning to the bloodstream after digestion. It prevents cholesterol build-up in arterial walls, allowing blood to flow without obstruction. Thus, adding beans to curries, rice, soups, and salads can help improve blood circulation.

Nuts
Nuts contain essential vitamins, protein, and healthy fats that can help improve overall health, including blood count and circulation. Here are a few nuts to add to meals:

Almonds : Almonds are rich in vitamin E, an important antioxidant for protecting cells from damage. They also contain iron, which is necessary to produce red blood cells. Almonds have healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
Brazil nuts : Brazil nuts have selenium, a mineral important for maintaining blood flow and circulation.
Cashews : Cashews are a good source of iron, essential for producing red blood cells. They also contain magnesium, which helps to regulate blood pressure and maintain healthy blood flow.
Pistachios : Pistachios are a good source of vitamin B6, which is important for producing hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.
Walnuts : Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can help improve circulation by reducing inflammation and preventing the formation of blood clots. The nuts also contain vitamin E, which is important for maintaining healthy blood vessels.

Dairy products
Yogurt, milk, cheese, and other dairy products contain essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that help improve blood circulation and cell count. Calcium in dairy products helps reduce cholesterol levels, encourages blood cell production, and increases red blood cell count, preventing anemia. Dairy products also contain fatty acids (such as palmitic and stearic acids), which help combat anemia and maintain the hemoglobin levels required for proper circulation. Further, the proteins found in dairy products are beneficial for blood clotting, reducing the risk of bruising or easy bleeding. Consequently, dairy products can keep the blood cells oxygenated and functioning optimally while reducing the risk of high cholesterol and other cardiovascular issues.

Incorporating these nutrient-rich foods into meals can provide a range of valuable benefits, like nourishing and protecting cells from damage. Not only are these foods highly beneficial for improving overall health, but they are versatile and can be added to many recipes to enhance their flavor and texture. Additionally, with the right food choices and eating habits, one can proactively improve their overall health. However, before introducing drastic changes to daily meals, one must consult a healthcare provider or nutritionist to ensure they meet their nutrient requirements.

Recommended

Tips to Manage Age-related Macular Degeneration

Tips to Manage Age-related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition threatening one’s eyesight and general health. In AMD, the macula, the part of the eye that helps produce the most detailed and sharpest vision, starts to break down and thin, resulting in vision loss. It is one of the most prevalent causes of blindness in people aged 60 or older. Though there is no definite cure for AMD, some things can postpone its onset or lower its severity. Being aware of family history Family history and genetics are one of the leading causes of AMD. So, if you have a first-degree relative with AMD, your chances of developing it are also higher. Hence, you must be vigilant and educate yourself on the potential AMD signs, such as the inability to adapt to low light conditions, difficulty identifying faces, and straight lines looking wavy. Knowledge of these symptoms can help you reach out to an ophthalmologist and get timely treatment while AMD is still in an early stage. Getting routine comprehensive medical checkups In the early stages of AMD, you might not experience any symptoms. Hence, routine comprehensive eye exams with an ophthalmologist can help with timely diagnosis and treatment. It holds even for adults 40 or older with no risk factors or signs because this is when you may develop early AMD symptoms or experience changes in vision.
Foods to Eat and Avoid After Dental Implants

Foods to Eat and Avoid After Dental Implants

Dental implants are a major surgical procedure. Hence, you must take the necessary post-operative measures to ensure a speedy recovery. One of the first things you will feel after the surgery is hunger, as dental implants demand abstaining from food for six hours since the procedure temporarily impacts your chewing ability. So, you must adhere to selective foods and avoid some, especially for two weeks. Therefore, here’s a list of foods to eat and avoid: Foods to eat Smoothies In the initial days post-surgery, you may be unable to chew your favorite food. So, the next best thing is drinking it as a smoothie. Smoothies are wholesome and tasty meals. You can make them with whatever vegetable or fruits you like, ensuring they have a high nutritional value and are rich in vitamins. Muffins You might be unable to eat the muffins on the first or the second-day post-surgery, but after the initial few days, you can easily enjoy a good muffin. They are easy to chew and are very delicious. Hence, they can be an incredible snack or breakfast option following dental implant surgery. Potatoes They are versatile and soft. You can prepare them in different ways. So, even if you eat the same ingredient, you will not get bored.
Atrial Fibrillation – Causes, Signs, and Remedies

Atrial Fibrillation – Causes, Signs, and Remedies

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is characterized by an irregular heart rhythm or arrhythmia in the atria or the heart’s upper two chambers. It causes a disturbance in the typical cycle of the electrical impulses in the heart. The condition results in a rapid and chaotic heart rhythm and poor blood movement from the upper chambers to the ventricles or the lower chambers. Below, we address the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and management of AFib. Causes AFib, or a change in the electrical signals in the heart, can affect anyone, regardless of age. But it is more prevalent in older people. A few risk factors that amplify the condition’s susceptibility are: Heart diseases People with an underlying heart condition, like a heart attack, coronary artery disease, and heart failure, have a greater risk of AFib. Hypertension If left unchecked, high blood pressure can strain the heart and aggravate the risk of this disorder. Familial link People with a family history of AFib have a greater chance of suffering from the condition. Sleep apnea This sleep disorder can also increase a person’s susceptibility to AFib, especially if it is severe. Besides the above, other chronic conditions like diabetes, asthma, and thyroid also put a person at risk of this heart problem.
13 Tips to Make a Low-Vision Friendly Home

13 Tips to Make a Low-Vision Friendly Home

If you are one of the millions affected by macular degeneration, you must know that this degenerative eye disease can make everyday activities difficult. Even something as simple as reading a book or watching TV can be challenging. For example, you can do a few things to stay comfortably at home with low vision. In this article, we will share 13 tips on making a low-vision-friendly home to make everyday living easier. What is macular degeneration? It is a condition that impacts the macula, which is the central part of the retina, and occurs when the macula deteriorates or breaks down. Macular degeneration symptoms Symptoms of macular degeneration include blurred or distorted vision, difficulty reading or seeing fine details, and a change in color perception. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see an eye doctor for a comprehensive dilated eye exam. Why does a low-vision-friendly home play a crucial part in patients with macular degeneration? A low-vision-friendly home design helps people with macular degeneration live as independently as possible while still enjoying their surroundings. In addition, it can provide them with a safe and functional environment to improve their contrast and visibility. Helpful tips for a low-vision friendly home Use bright and contrasting colors Using bright colors can help make objects more visible and easier to see.
Macular Degeneration – Causes, Symptoms, and More

Macular Degeneration – Causes, Symptoms, and More

Macular degeneration is a progressive disease that destroys the macula, the part of the eye that allows you to see fine details. It can make activities like reading, writing, and driving difficult or impossible. The disease typically occurs in older adults and can lead to blindness. While macular degeneration can be managed in its early stages, it has no cure. This article discusses the causes, risk factors, symptoms, and treatments of macular degeneration. What is macular degeneration? Macular degeneration is a disease of the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye. There are two types of macular degeneration: dry and wet. The former develops when the macula dries out and loses its function. Wet macular degeneration is a result of new blood vessels under the retina leaking fluid or blood, causing vision loss. Symptoms of macular degeneration The symptoms of macular degeneration can develop differently in individuals, but here are the typical signs one must note. One of the main symptoms is a gradual loss of central vision, which can progress over time and may not be noticeable at first. Additional symptoms are difficulty reading small print or close-up objects, trouble seeing in dim light or when looking up from a low angle, problems with depth perception and peripheral vision, and poor night vision.
What is Eczema and How to Treat It

What is Eczema and How to Treat It

Eczema is a chronic skin disease characterized by dry, red, and itchy skin. It typically appears around the arms, elbows, and knees; however, it can show up anywhere. As the condition can flare up due to various triggers, it is vital to understand its nature and how to treat it. This article provides a guide to everything one needs to know about eczema, from its causes and symptoms to treatment options and helpful management tips. What is eczema? Eczema is a skin condition that can be both painful and itchy. It can also be embarrassing, as it often appears as a rash on the face, hands, or other visible areas of the body. Because eczema weakens your skin’s barrier, you’re also more susceptible to infection. Is eczema contagious? There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that eczema is contagious. There are some reports of people with eczema who have also had close family members with it, but these cases are rare and not always linked. Something in the person’s environment (such as dust mites or other allergens) may trigger the condition in someone who has never had it before. Symptoms of eczema Eczema is a skin condition that can be extremely frustrating for those who suffer from it.