How To Support Healthy Circulation On A Daily Basis, From Experts

You've probably heard the saying "sitting is the new smoking," and while it may be true, it can also be pretty infuriating to hear. What if your job requires you to be seated, or you simply need a day to unwind on the couch? Trust us, we hear you!

But the thing is, the very vital job of the heart is to pump (aka circulate) blood and oxygen throughout the body1. When you're sitting for prolonged periods of time, whole-body blood flow isn't optimal. Over time, this can affect cardiovascular health outcomes, but it doesn't mean you're doomed if you work a desk job.

Good news: Heart health isn't predicated on intense cardio alone. In fact, Scott Braunstein, M.D., emergency medicine physician and medical director at Sollis Health, says walking "is undoubtedly the best way to increase your circulation." Whether you're working a desk job, have a long day of travel, or are bingeing your favorite shows over the weekend, be sure to get up and walk around every few hours. 

There are certain foods that can promote healthy vascular function—and many of them are likely already in your kitchen.

If you're not on a vegetarian or vegan diet, you can benefit from adding more fatty fish to your plate, Braunstein says. Research suggests omega-3 fatty acids in fish like salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, and herring (aka SMASH) may support vascular function and improve cardiovascular health outcomes.* 

In case you're not eating the recommended intake of two 3.5-ounce servings of fish per week (and let's face it, most of us aren't), adding other food sources of omega-3s to your diet and taking a high-quality fish oil supplement can help address key nutrient gaps and provide cardioprotective benefits.* (Our favorite omega-3 supplements here, if you're curious.)