This Vitamin After 40 May Support Better Circulation in Your Legs and Feet — 15 Natural Foods
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There isn’t a vitamin that acts as a “miracle” cure for poor circulation. However, vitamin B12 is important for healthy nerves and red blood cells, and a B12 deficiency can contribute to numbness, tingling, weakness, and other neurological symptoms that may be felt in the feet and legs.
For actual circulation, factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, physical activity, and artery or vein disease are much more important.
15 Natural Foods That Support Circulation and Nerve Health
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Salmon — provides omega-3 fats and vitamin B12.
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Sardines — rich in B12 and omega-3 fatty acids.
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Eggs — provide vitamin B12 and protein.
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Milk — a source of B12 and other nutrients.
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Plain yogurt — provides B12 and protein.
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Clams — exceptionally rich in vitamin B12.
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Beef — provides B12, iron, and protein.
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Chicken — supplies B vitamins and protein.
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Tuna — provides B12 and omega-3 fats.
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Fortified breakfast cereals — many contain added B12 and other B vitamins.
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Fortified nutritional yeast — can provide B12 when specifically fortified.
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Spinach — provides folate, magnesium, and other nutrients.
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Avocado — provides folate, potassium, and healthy fats.
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Oranges — provide vitamin C and folate.
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Beans and lentils — provide folate, fiber, potassium, and other nutrients important for cardiovascular health.
Don’t Forget Vitamin B1 and B6
Other B vitamins also support normal nerve function. However, more isn’t better: taking excessive amounts of vitamin B6 supplements for long periods can actually cause nerve damage and a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, controlling blood pressure and cholesterol, and managing diabetes can have a much larger effect on vascular numbness.
For Better Leg Circulation
Food is only part of the picture. Regular walking, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, controlling blood pressure and cholesterol, and managing diabetes can have a much larger effect on vascular health.
If your feet are persistently cold, numb, painful, swollen, or changing color, don’t assume you simply need a vitamin. These symptoms can indicate peripheral artery disease, venous disease, diabetes-related nerve problems, or another condition that needs medical evaluation.
Sudden severe leg pain, swelling, discoloration, or a cold/pale foot requires urgent medical attention.
