Healthy circulation without citrus

Citrus fruits are a good source of antioxidants called flavonoids. And a new study shows that a particular flavonoid in citrus fruits–called flavanones–can help women maintain healthy circulation and blood vessels.

The study involved 69,622 women. Researchers found that women who drank citrus juice or ate citrus fruits daily had better circulation over a 14-year period.

The problem is, citrus fruits contain a LOT of sugar. If you’re watching your weight, it’s critical that you pay attention to just how frequently you eat them. Limit grapefruit to once or twice a week and oranges to a few times a month. (And you know how I feel about juice–skip it entirely!)

But you can get the same benefits citrus fruits have to offer–without the extra sugar. Just off the top of my head, I can think of two better options:

1.Pycnogenol,® an extract derived from the French maritime pine tree. Pycnogenol helps you maintain healthy circulation and blood pressure..

2. Nattokinase,an enzyme extracted from a popular Japanese fermented soy product called natto. Nattokinase is a natural blood thinner, which helps prevent blood clots that can lead to stroke.

Both will help you keep your blood flowing smoothly–without derailing your weight loss efforts.