People often focus on improving their diet to look better in their clothes, sleep more soundly, and increase their energy levels.

However, foods packed with vitamins and minerals are what fuel the body and allow us to function on a daily basis. And a key component of our physiological well-being is the cardiovascular system including the heart, arteries, and veins. 

While everyone’s concerned about the health of their hearts, they should also take good care of their arteries and veins, which transport blood throughout the body. That being said, a nutritious diet is one of the best ways to keep your arteries and veins well-maintained.

Here are five foods for healthy arteries and veins.

1. Don’t Forget Your Fiber

High-fiber foods assist in digestion and can help individuals from packing on the pounds. This is important because excess weight puts pressure on veins and makes them more susceptible to becoming varicose or damaged.

To boost your fiber intake, eat more: Popcorn, oatmeal, brown rice, leafy greens, broccoli, avocado, chia, and lentils.

2. Stay Away From Salt

Too much sodium causes veins to retain water and makes it harder for fluids to travel through them. Therefore, you should try to limit salty and processed foods, and opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, and lean proteins.

3. Boost Your Vitamin C Intake

vitamin C is well-known for its ability to promote healing and boost immunity. It also stimulates the production of collagen and elastin to increase flexibility, contraction, and blood flow in arteries and veins.

Some foods that are high in vitamin C include: Broccoli, strawberries, cauliflower, pineapple, dark leafy greens, Brussel sprouts, oranges, and bell peppers.

4. Get More Vitamin E in Your Diet

Foods that are rich in vitamin E help prevent platelets from sticking together and reduce the chance of a blood clot forming in your deep veins – also known as a Deep Venous Thrombosis. DVT is a very serious condition and can be fatal if it leads to a Pulmonary Embolism.

Try these foods that are full of vitamin E: Nuts, seeds, avocados, olive oil, pumpkin, mangos, dark leafy greens, and fish.

5. Keep Hydrated With Water Throughout the Day

Water helps the body achieve a balanced level of fluids to aid in digestion and efficient functioning.  Therefore, drinking enough water throughout the day is another way you can promote the health of your veins and arteries.

To learn more about foods that protect the health of arteries and veins, please call the Vein Center of Maryland to schedule an appointment.

We are conveniently located in Westminster, Eldersburg, Baltimore, Hunt Valley and Bel Air.