What Minerals Strengthen Blood Vessels?

Healthy blood vessels are essential for proper circulation, as blood is pumped from the heart to carry nutrients to the cells throughout the body by way of the arteries and then returns to the heart through the venous system, according to Health911.com. Weakened veins, also known as varicose veins, are widened and twisted, causing swelling, aching and muscle cramps. Varicose veins primarily appear in the legs and leave bruises and ulcers caused by a poor diet or long periods of sitting. Taking adequate amounts of minerals can help to improve the vein circulation system and reduce constriction of blood flow. While prolonged standing or sitting, lifting heavy weights, lack of exercise, aging and hormonal changes are contributing factors to this condition, regular use of proper minerals can reduce the effects over time. Consult your physician and follow careful instructions before starting use of a mineral regimen to strengthen weakened blood vessels.

Vitamin supplements spilling out of a bottle. (Image: Pia_iStock89/iStock/Getty Images)

Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral required for normal function of the body's systems, according to OurHealthCoop.com. Magnesium is an active component of a cell's energy-creating process, nerve activities, vascular function and bone formation, making it a highly beneficial mineral for blood vessel health. The vascular system is composed of large amounts of blood vessels that push blood throughout your entire body. Every time your heart beats, blood is forced into the arteries, which are lined with smooth muscle that contracts and expands to push blood through the vessels. Magnesium is a vital component in expanding these muscles to open the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow smoothly through.

Potassium

Potassium is a mineral that is present inside the cells and plays a vital role in maintaining fluid balance, electrolyte balance and cellular integrity, according to For the Record. The body uses more than 1/3 of its energy to pump potassium into and out of cells to help conduct nerve impulses, contract muscles, maintain normal body pH and support bone and kidney health. Potassium deficiency can result in cardiac arrhythmia, muscle weakness and glucose intolerance. It is an essential mineral for the proper constriction or relaxation of blood vessels.

Iron

Iron is another mineral that is prevalent in the body and contained in hemoglobin, which helps red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body's tissues, according to Merck. Iron also is an important component of muscle cells and is essential for the formation of various enzymes within the body. When red blood cells die, iron inside them is returned to the bone marrow and used again in new red blood cells. Iron deficiency due to a poor diet can result in anemia, which gives a pale appearance and can make you feel weak and tired. An adequate intake of iron, either through dietary additives or supplements, is necessary for strong blood vessels and proper blood flow throughout the body.