Poor circulation in hands and feet is caused by various factors such as lack of exercise, unhealthy habits, and underlying health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and Raynaud’s syndrome.
Poor circulation can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands and feet. It can also lead to skin discoloration, slow healing, and increased susceptibility to infections. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to improve poor circulation in hands and feet.
In this article, we’ll discuss some of the best methods for improving circulation and keeping your hands and feet healthy.
1. Exercise Regularly
One of the most effective ways to improve circulation in your hands and feet is to exercise regularly. Exercise helps to increase blood flow throughout your body and strengthen your heart.
Aerobic exercise such as jogging, cycling, and swimming are great for improving circulation. Yoga and stretching can also help to increase blood flow and reduce stress, which can contribute to poor circulation.
2. Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet can also help to improve circulation in your hands and feet. Eating foods that are rich in antioxidants such as fruits and vegetables can help to reduce inflammation, which can improve circulation.
Foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, nuts, and seeds can also help to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Maintaining a healthy weight is also important for improving circulation and reducing your risk of developing poor circulation. Being overweight can put extra pressure on your circulatory system, making it harder for blood to flow.
Losing weight through diet and exercise can help to improve circulation and reduce your risk of developing poor circulation.
4. Stop Smoking
Smoking is one of the worst things you can do for your circulation. Smoking can damage your blood vessels and reduce blood flow, making it harder for your hands and feet to receive the nutrients and oxygen they need to function properly.
If you smoke, it’s important to quit as soon as possible to improve your circulation and reduce your risk of developing serious health problems.
5. Wear Compression Socks or Gloves
Wearing compression socks or gloves can also help to improve circulation in your hands and feet. Compression garments work by applying pressure to your limbs, which helps to improve blood flow.
They can help to reduce swelling and other symptoms of poor circulation, and are especially helpful for people who spend long periods of time sitting or standing.
6. Elevate Your Feet
Elevating your feet can also help to improve circulation in your hands and feet. When you sit or stand for long periods of time, blood can pool in your lower limbs, leading to poor circulation.
Elevating your feet above your heart can help to improve blood flow and reduce swelling and other symptoms of poor circulation.
7. Massage Your Hands and Feet
Massage can also help to improve circulation in your hands and feet. Massaging your hands and feet can help to increase blood flow and reduce tension, which can improve circulation and reduce symptoms such as numbness and tingling.
You can massage your hands and feet yourself, or you can see a professional massage therapist for a more comprehensive massage.
8. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is also important for improving circulation in your hands and feet. Dehydration can cause your blood vessels to constrict, making it harder for blood to flow.
Drinking plenty of water and other fluids can help to keep your blood flowing smoothly and reduce symptoms of poor circulation.
9. Manage Underlying Health Conditions
Managing underlying health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and Raynaud’s syndrome is also important for improving circulation in your hands and feet.
These conditions can all contribute to poor circulation, so it’s important to work with your doctor to manage them effectively.
10. Take Supplements
Taking supplements such as ginkgo biloba, magnesium, and vitamin E can also help to improve circulation in your hands and feet. These supplements have all been shown to improve blood flow and reduce symptoms of poor circulation.
However, it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, especially if you are on other medications.
Improving circulation in your hands and feet is important for maintaining good health and preventing serious health problems. By following these tips, you can improve your circulation and keep your hands and feet healthy.