There are about 60,000 miles of blood vessels in the human body, and along with the heart and other muscles, they make up the circulatory system.
The role of this network of roadways is to carry blood to every corner of your body. However, when your circulation is poor, it slows or blocks the blood flow, and the cells in the body can’t get all the oxygen and nutrients they need.
In the case of reduced blood flow, one develops poor circulation symptoms. This usually happens in the extremities, and the most common causes of it include diabetes, obesity, heart conditions, and arterial issues.
People suffering from poor blood circulation experience symptoms like muscle cramps, tingling, numbness, throbbing or stinging pain in the limbs.
If left untreated, this issue could lead to reduced blood flow and plaque in the arteries, which might cause more serious conditions, like a heart attack or a stroke.
Therefore, it is of high importance to improve blood flow in the body, and here are the most effective natural ways to do so:
- Regular exercise boosts circulation, and you can pick a physical activity such as swimming, running, walking, or riding a bike
- Massage boosts blood circulation by stimulating blood flow in the treated area
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid smoking, as it is one of the main causes of poor circulation
- Stretching will improve body circulation as prolonged periods of sitting slow it down
- A healthy and well-balanced diet, rich in vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and lean proteins, and low in salt, trans fats, and sugar, will increase blood flow in the body
- To instantly boost circulation, use a pillow or another object to elevate the legs while sitting
- Hot and cold treatment boosts circulation; apply heat using a hot pack for about 30 seconds, and then repeat with a cold one
- Hydrotherapy will help you better oxygen flow as hot water relaxes the tense muscles, boosting blood circulation and allowing oxygen to flow more smoothly
- Ginkgo Biloba is a versatile herb that boosts circulation and is available as a liquid extract, a tablet, capsules, or a dried leaf.
Additionally, you will benefit a low from a salt-made scrub, as it will smooth the skin, energize your legs, and ease excess fluid. To boost circulation, buff in circular motions working your way up the leg, from ankle to knee.
Note that high heels and pointed-toe shoes interrupt the blood flow from the heart to the feet, so you should choose flats or trainers whenever possible.
You can also try tights for compression hosiery, which are specifically designed to help blood circulate easily through the legs.
Sources: www.davidwolfe.com
