Cardiovascular disease claims the lives of more than 18 million individuals every year. We tell you what foods enhance circulation and strengthen blood vessels

Our body’s circulatory system needs to be healthy. The buildup of calcium phosphate salts and fat on the walls of the arteries increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Luckily, there are meals that help our vascular system.

Broccoli

In addition to providing only 25 calories per 100 grams, this cruciferous vegetable is rich in sulforaphanes, compounds associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. It also helps reduce bad cholesterol thanks to the presence of glucosinolates and high amounts of fiber.

Broccoli is also rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin K, folic acid, zinc, iron and calcium, essential for the health of the cardiovascular system.

Strawberries

These berries stand out for having high amounts of flavonoids. These substances help to dilate the arteries and protect their inner layer. They also control blood pressure.

Experts agree that eating just three servings of strawberries a week greatly improves circulation and can reduce the risk of vascular disease by up to a third.

Brussels sprouts

This plant is also rich in nutrients and has particularly high levels of vitamin K, necessary for blood clotting. Like broccoli, Brussels sprouts are rich in fiber, and their intake also lowers the risk of vascular disease.

In 2020, research from Edith Cowan University in Australia showed that this vegetable is especially beneficial for older women.

“We have now found that older women consuming higher amounts of cruciferous vegetables every day have lower odds of having extensive calcification on their aorta,” explains study lead author Dr Lauren Blekkenhorst.

Dark chocolate

This delicious food helps restore the flexibility of blood vessels and prevents leukocytes from accumulating on their walls. This, in turn, greatly lowers the risk of atherosclerosis.

Cocoa is also rich in flavonoids and polyphenols, compounds that play an important role in protecting the body against cardiovascular diseases.

Cabbage

Cabbage is also high in fiber and rich in vitamins and minerals. The vegetable helps prevent the accumulation of plaques in the blood vessels, which is why doctors and nutritionists recommend incorporating it into your diet.

This plant has digestive and healing properties. It also helps burn fat and, consequently, prevent hypertension and lower cholesterol.

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