(PCM) Along with cold, wintry weather comes poor circulation – at least for millions of Americans. There are some unhealthy lifestyle factors that contribute to the development of poor circulation, such as a poor diet and smoking, but for many, poor circulation is just a frustrating effect of winter. Nothing slows you down quite like numb fingers and toes!
Don’t let the chilly weather slow you down this winter! Try these tips to get the blood flowing again:
1. Eat cayenne pepper. Cayenne contains capsaicin, which may help to reduce cholesterol and clear arteries and blood vessels. You can add it to just about any dish that could use a kick. Or, rub it right on the body area that suffers from poor circulation. Ecorazzi suggests making a paste with ground cayenne pepper and water. Spread the paste thinly on a cheese cloth and wrap the cloth around the troubled area. If you feel a burning sensation, add some olive oil to the paste to relieve intensity.
2. Increase your citrus consumption. Lemons contain citrate, which naturally improves circulation, as do oranges and grapefruit. Swap your morning apple with a grapefruit, or squeeze a lemon into water to get the blood flowing first thing in the morning. Citrus fruits are also a good source of vitamin C, and low levels of vitamin C are associated with the narrowing of the arteries that supple blood to the legs!
3. Get enough sleep. Adequate sleep is important for a variety of health reasons, but in terms of circulation getting 7-8 hours of sleep a night reduces tension in the body, relaxes muscles, and promotes detoxification and lymph drainage – all of which lead to better circulation.
4. Treat yourself with dark chocolate, daily! A Harvard study found there was a significant vasodilation among adults after four days of eating chocolate. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, an antioxidant found to increase circulation.
5. Enjoy a full body massage. Enough said!
For more tips on increasing circulation, click here.
Poor circulation can also affect the heart, liver, and other organs. There may be an underlying condition, which left untreated can lead to serious complications, such as heart attack or stroke. Talk to your doctor if you’re symptoms get worse.