To promote circulation and increase blood flow we can perform self-massage. We will start with the feet and we will go up to the thighs.
Bad circulation of blood can have many causes. However, the most common diseases that tend to have, among its symptoms poor circulation are: atherosclerosis, hypertension, angina, heart murmurs, and non-physiological tachycardia, among others.
In addition to these diseases, a diet low in fiber and rich in salty and fatty foods, together with poor hydration and a sedentary lifestyle, can cause a person to suffer from poor circulation.
Once the doctor has made a physical assessment and diagnosed the person with a circulatory disorder, it is important to follow their instructions and correct all those habits that may harm the picture and impede well-being.
Here are some tips that will help you lead a healthier lifestyle and get benefits not only short but long term.
1. Massages and hydrotherapy
The massage can significantly help combat poor circulation or at least alleviate the discomfort involved. To perform them, it is necessary to take into account that not all techniques serve the same purpose and that, therefore, it is important to look for the most appropriate to avoid discomfort.
In case you decide to perform a massage for yourself, do it with delicacy. Avoid exerting too much pressure on the skin and move your hands gently, with circular movements, from the feet upwards to stimulate blood flow.
Now, in regards to the product with which you are going to perform the massage, it is convenient that this is a cold gel, to help activate the blood return and relieve the feeling of heaviness.
On the other hand, hydrotherapy also helps fight poor circulation. Cold and hot water jets are alternately used on the skin to activate circulation.
2. Maintain a balanced diet
A balanced diet, low in salt and rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables and cereals will help to enjoy good health and, of course, this includes good circulation.
Some of the most favoring foods for cardiovascular health are: spinach, celery, sunflower seeds, bananas, soy, potatoes, chocolate, avocado, skim milk, fish and citrus.
Check with your doctor what the most convenient diet may be and, if you wish, also consult a nutritionist to obtain a well-structured nutritional plan, according to your physical needs.
3. Elevate the legs
To improve circulation, whenever possible, it is a good idea to place your legs up for a few minutes. It is recommended to do it for periods of 15 minutes uninterrupted, especially when you get home from work or, a long day.
4. Drink an infusion of ginkgo biloba
The gingko biloba is a plant that, according to some research, can prevent the formation of thrombi, since it has an effect similar to that of aspirin in regard to the dilation of blood vessels. Therefore, the infusion of gingko biloba can be a good option to supplement the diet and good habits to combat poor circulation.
5. Do moderate exercise, but continue
The sedentary lifestyle and the fact of staying in the same position for a long time, will only manage to maintain the discomfort. Therefore, you should try to exercise daily, at least, 30 minutes. Some of the most recommended activities are: swimming, jogging and yoga.
What promotes poor circulation?
Excesses, of any kind, have a negative influence on health. For example, smoking is one of the main habits that promote the appearance of circulatory disorders, among other diseases that have, among its symptoms, poor circulation.
It is important to avoid tobacco, alcohol and bad habits, in general, to be able to enjoy good health and well-being, day by day. Also, remember to reduce your sodium intake; that is, salty foods, so as not to promote the retention of liquids and other discomforts.
