Blood circulation is what helps everything function properly in our bodies. From leg circulation to blood in our fingers and toes, poor circulation is something to be aware of. There are many natural ways to manage blood circulation in the body, including eating a healthy diet, practicing special exercises, and using relaxing baths to help get the blood flowing.
Let’s learn more about blood circulation in the body and some tips and tricks to improve poor circulation.
Why Blood Circulation Matters
Blood circulation, or the cardiovascular system, “delivers nutrients and oxygen to all cells in the body. It consists of the heart and the blood vessels running through the entire body.” In other words, our circulatory systems are in charge of running everything from our limbs to our brains. Taking care of of your blood circulation is beneficial for overall health.
Physical Solutions for Poor Leg Circulation
There are many treatments for poor circulation throughout the body, specifically for the legs. Here are a few things you can do to help increase blood circulation in the body:
- Wear compression socks to encourage blood flow and help with Varicose-veins or other vein-related problems. According to the Society for Vascular Surgery, about 40% of the US population faces chronic venous insufficiency.
- If your poor circulation is extreme, talk to your doctor about possible laser or endoscopic surgery. These surgical procedures may be able to address vein and circulation issues.
- Taking a warm bath can help improve blood flow to the feet and increase circulation throughout the whole body. Hydrotherapy has many benefits and helping to improve leg circulation is one of them.
Lifestyle Changes to Help With Leg Circulation
In addition to the physical components of improving blood circulation in the body, there are many lifestyle changes you can make, as well. These include focusing on your diet, being more active, and much more!
- There are special exercises designed to improve blood flow, such as yoga. Low-impact exercise can be accomplished by all fitness levels and all you need is a yoga mat, making it very accessible.
- Avoid smoking to help improve your body’s blood circulation. Smoking constricts the body’s blood vessels, making it harder to get the circulation you need.
- A 2009 study shows that being overweight can negatively affect a person’s circulation, especially for women. Maintaining a healthy weight is good for general health and wellness, as well as leg circulation and blood circulation in the body.
- Oily fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna, help promote cardiovascular health and improve circulation. These fish contain omega-3 fatty acids which are powerhouses for heart health.
- One tip many people might not think of is to monitor your iron levels. Iron is an essential nutrient needed for blood circulation in the body, but too much iron can actually negatively impact heart health. Talk to your doctor about eating foods rich in iron, like spinach and some red meat, and how they may help you maintain healthy iron levels.
Many people are struggling with poor leg circulation, but there are ways to address this condition and improve your blood circulation and overall health. Staying active with low impact movement like yoga or walking, taking advantage of hydrotherapy, and monitoring your diet and weight are all ways to keep your heart healthy.
