What Causes Poor Blood Circulation?
Poor or bad circulation is caused by atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries, this is when the blood does not travel freely through the arteries and capillaries and is generally due to a blockage or a narrowing effect in the arteries. Fatty deposits such as cholesterol build up in the bloodstream and stick to the artery walls, this in turn forms hard plaque which narrows the artery and restricts blood flow.
When blood cannot circulate properly it effects your legs, feet, hands and arms as these extremities do not receive a strong enough blood flow to nourish them, it can be likened to the furring up of water pipes in a household central heating system or a washing machine.
If no action is taken to prevent poor circulation it can also affect the vital organs such as the heart and brain. Poor circulation is more common in people who suffer from high blood pressure, including smokers, diabetics and those with high levels of cholesterol.
Many conditions can be caused by poor circulation, to name a few (but not limited to) high blood pressure, heart related problems, organ damage, varicose veins, strokes and kidney problems as well as most blood flow restriction complaints.
Who is affected with Poor Circulation?
Because of poor lifestyle choices such as fatty foods and lack of exercise the problem is most prevalent in adults although some cases of children and even babies having poor circulation have been reported, but this is more likely because of generic issues.
Common causes of poor circulation
Having a history of smoking and lack of exercise are certain contributors to bad circulation. Blocked arteries and poor blood flow doesn’t happen overnight, it usually takes years to manifest. The good news is you can improve your circulation quickly if you change your diet and adopt an exercise regime. These changes alone will give your circulatory system a boost in the long term but to see quicker results.
Sitting at a computer or a desk job day after day can cause blood flow issues, more so if you don’t take regular breaks and don’t exercise.
Try to limit coffee and tea, you don’t have to cut them out completely, just cut down and don’t drink more than 2 or 3 cups a day.
Alcohol also has a detrimental effect on blood circulation so again, everything in moderation.
The Symptoms of Poor Circulation
Although by no means conclusive here are some of the symptoms of poor circulation.
- Cold hands and fingers
- Cold feet and toes
- Numbness in extremities
- Tiredness and lack of energy
- Memory loss
- Hair loss
- Dizziness
- Swelling and water retention
- Varicose veins
- Cramp or pins and needles
- Shortness of breath
Holistic Treatments
These include hydrotherapy, yoga, reflexology, stretching exercises, acupuncture and body massage.
Quick Exercise to improve poor circulation
Do this exercise routine every day to see results and get your blood pumping
1. March on the spot for 20 marches, keep your shoulders back and your back straight, pull in your stomach muscles.
2. Continue marching but this time add shoulder rolls; lift both shoulders up to your ears, then back and forwards, for 20 counts.
3. Finish the routine with 10 alternate knee lifts, bringing each knee up to meet your opposite elbow.
EDTA Chelation together with a regular exercise programme and improved diet will greatly benefit poor circulation issues by removing calcium plaque from the arteries and promoting fitness.