Your blood feeds every cell, tissue, gland, organ and organ system in your body. Without strong, oxygen-rich blood these systems can become compromised. Here are 17 ways to build stronger, richer, healthier blood:
Get moving
The best way to build oxygen-rich blood is to exercise. Not only does exercise help your heart pump blood, it brings fresh oxygen.
Breathe deeply
Breathing deeply brings more oxygen to your lungs which then moves directly across into your blood.
Related: 13 Health Benefits of Deep Breathing
Eat more legumes
Rich in fiber and nutrients, beans and legumes help eliminate harmful cholesterol (LDL) and lower triglycerides.
Get adequate iron
Iron forms the center of the hemoglobin molecule making it essential for strong blood. Many pre-menopausal women are deficient in iron and may need supplementation. Because excess iron can be dangerous, get your levels tested prior to supplementation. Some vegan foods that are good sources of iron include: lentils, kidney beans, prunes, green vegetables and dried apricots.
Take a B-vitamin supplement
The B-vitamins B-6, B-12 and folate are essential to lowering the amount of homocysteine in your blood. High levels of homocysteine have been linked to arterial clogging and heart disease, making it critical to control.
Related: Are You Vitamin B-12 Deficient?