Blood is one of the vital elements that sustain our body's life. It supplies oxygen and nutrients to each tissue and cell, while also removing waste to maintain overall health. However, when blood becomes cloudy and clots form, the risk of cardiovascular diseases increases. To prevent this and keep the blood clear, what foods should we consume? In this post, we'll introduce four foods that help keep the blood clear.
Wakame Seaweed
Wakame is rich in components like fucoidan and alginate, which aid in keeping the blood clear. Fucoidan, a dietary fiber found in seaweed, prevents clot formation and promotes clear blood flow. Alginate, a soluble fiber in wakame, helps expel bad cholesterol and neutral fats, preventing dyslipidemia and atherosclerosis. However, since raw wakame is high in sodium, it's advisable to soak it in water before cooking to reduce its saltiness.
Seafood
Shellfish, oysters, tuna, and other seafood are rich in taurine, which regulates blood pressure and promotes heart health. Taurine inhibits the action of the sympathetic nervous system, which raises blood pressure, and assists in the blood-pumping action of heart muscles, a component also used in treating heart failure. Additionally, oily fish like mackerel and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which lower neutral fats and prevent clot formation, ensuring smooth blood circulation.
Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds contain sesaminol and sesamin, which help maintain clean blood. Sesaminol removes cholesterol derived from high-fat meals, protecting blood vessels, while sesamin prevents cholesterol absorption in the intestines, lowering blood cholesterol levels. However, since sesame seeds are high in calories, it's best to consume about 10g per day.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and tangerines are rich in potassium, which helps stabilize blood pressure. Particularly, citric acid in oranges filters impurities in the blood, and vitamin P strengthens capillaries, promoting smooth blood circulation. It's advisable to consume citrus fruits without added sugars. Drinking about one cup of juice per day is suitable.
To maintain clear and healthy blood, it's essential to consume a variety of foods in a balanced manner. Include the foods mentioned above in your diet to maintain a healthy eating habit and make efforts to prevent cardiovascular diseases.
