Healthy blood flow is essential to health and wellness. Your circulatory system tirelessly pumps blood throughout your body, carrying oxygen and nutrients to all your organs and cells. If blood flow is restricted in any way, it can result in everything from minor inconveniences to major life-threatening events.

Poor Circulation

Whether your symptoms of poor blood flow are apparent or not, unhealthy circulation can be dangerous and should be reported to your health care professional. Here are just a few symptoms of poor circulation.

• Cold hands and feet
• Swelling of the lower extremities
• Numbness in extremities
• Memory loss and difficulty concentrating
• Muscle pain
• Digestive issues
• Fatigue
• Varicose veins and leg ulcers
• Itchy skin
• Dark eye circles

How to Improve Circulation Naturally

Fortunately, there are some things you can do to improve circulation naturally.

Exercise. Exercise is key to getting your blood flowing since it stimulates the heart, the command center for your circulatory system.

Stress management. Did you know when your body’s under stress, your blood vessels constrict? Learning to manage stress through healthy means like practicing yoga, taking a hike in the woods, talking to a trusted friend, taking a hot bath, or engaging in an enjoyable activity will help lower stress levels.

Massage. Massage helps circulation two ways: 1) reduces stress and; 2) releases the feel-good hormones called endorphins.

Eat oily fish. The omegas in cold-water fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines and tuna promote cardiovascular health and blood flow.

Stop smoking. Smoking causes blood vessels to constrict, so it cannot flow smoothly.

Maintain a healthy weight. Losing weight has a positive effect on circulation.

Avoid sitting for long periods of time. So many of us sit for long periods of time every day at work or home, making your circulatory system work harder. Stand up frequently and when sitting extend your legs to keep blood flowing.

Best Vitamins, Herbs, Nutrients for Healthy Circulation

Certain vitamins, herbs and nutrients are extremely popular for supporting healthy circulation including the following:

• Vitamin B-12, B-6
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin K
• Folate
• Iron
• Hawthorn
• Cayenne
• Butcher’s broom
• Ginger
• Turmeric/Curcumin
• Omega 3 fatty acids
• L-Arginine

You may think cold hands and itchy skin are just something you need to live with, but it’s quite possible your circulation could be to blame. Trying a few of these natural options could be just the solution you need for healthy blood flow and overall wellness.