Have you ever felt your legs or arms go numb after sitting for a long time? That happens because of poor circulation. Our heart is like a pump that sends blood all over our body, but there are other things that help the blood move around.
This is really important for all our organs to work well. In this article, we’ll find out the causes of poor circulation and learn how to make sure it stays healthy.
How poor circulation issues can impact us?
Poor circulation refers to a situation where the blood in your body doesn’t flow properly. Symptoms of poor circulation include muscle cramps, numbness, and a tingling sensation, especially in your extremities like hands and feet. You might also notice changes in skin colour, such as paleness or blueness. Common symptoms of poor circulation include cold hands and feet.
Fatigue is another sign of poor circulation. As your organs may not be receiving sufficient oxygen and nutrients to function properly. In severe cases, it can contribute to the development of conditions like peripheral artery disease.
Additionally, people with poor circulation have compromised ability to heal from injuries or infections. The delivery of important components like immune cells and nutrients is important for healing. Over time, it may even contribute to more serious health issues, such as cardiovascular problems including heart attack and stroke.
Causes Of Poor Circulation
Now we know that poor circulation can be the precursor of many of our problems, so it’s always better to know the causes. When we learn the cause, the solutions come easily
Sedentary Lifestyle
Sedentary lifestyle is behind most of our modern world problems. And when it comes to circulation, our lifestyle is the lead villain. Here’s how it obstructs our circulation.
- Lack of Physical Activity:
When we don’t move our bodies much, blood doesn’t flow well. Regular exercises, like walking or playing, help the heart pump blood better. This helps in sending oxygen and nutrients to all parts of the body.
- Prolonged Sitting or Standing:
Sitting or standing for too long can make blood gather in one place, especially in our legs. This can slow down the flow of blood back to the heart. Which further cause problems like numbness and makes it harder for our body to get the oxygen it needs.
- Inactivity and Passive Entertainment:
When we spend a lot of time watching TV or playing games without moving much, our muscles stay still. Moving muscles helps blood flow, so if we’re not moving, blood doesn’t circulate well. This can make it tough for our body to send oxygen and nutrients to different organs.
Poor Diet
Poor diet can significantly impact our health, including blood circulation. Two key factors contributing to this issue are:
- Imbalanced Ratio of Nutrients:
When our meals lack a good balance of nutrients like proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, it can affect how our blood flows. Each nutrient plays a role in keeping our blood healthy. For example, a lack of essential fatty acids can impact blood vessel function, affecting the overall circulation system.
- Insufficient Consumption of Fruits and Vegetables:
Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health. Not eating enough of these can mean missing out on important elements that keep our blood vessels strong and flexible. This flexibility is crucial for maintaining smooth blood flow throughout the body.
Smoking
Smoking causes problems in our blood vessels by triggering endothelial dysfunction, where the inner lining (endothelium) doesn’t work properly. The harmful chemicals in cigarette smoke disrupt a delicate balance, leading to less nitric oxide production. Nitric oxide is crucial for blood vessels to open up. This makes it hard for blood to flow freely.
Additionally, smoking creates chronic inflammation in the blood vessels. The smoke causes the build-up of plaque that narrows them. This can lead to blood clots, making it even harder for blood to move around.
On top of that, cigarette smoke creates oxidative stress. By damaging the cells lining our blood vessels it makes them age faster. This weakens the vessel walls, making them more prone to problems and further impacting how blood flows in our body.
Health Conditions
Let’s explore the impact of certain health conditions on circulation:
- PAD – Peripheral Artery Disease:
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a condition where blood vessels carrying oxygen and nutrients to the limbs become narrow or blocked. This reduces blood flow to the legs and arms, causing pain and making it harder for wounds to heal. It significantly impairs circulation in these areas.
- Obesity:
Obesity, or being significantly overweight, can strain the circulatory system. The excess body weight puts extra pressure on blood vessels, making it challenging for blood to flow efficiently. This can contribute to issues like high blood pressure and affect circulation throughout the body.
- Diabetes:
Diabetes can harm blood vessels and nerves, affecting circulation. High blood sugar levels can damage the walls of blood vessels, making them less flexible. This reduces blood flow to various organs and increases the risk of complications such as poor wound healing and nerve damage.
- Hypertension
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can damage blood vessels over time. The constant force of blood against the vessel walls can cause them to weaken and narrow, affecting blood flow. Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and can lead to poor circulation to vital organs.
Exposure To Harmful Chemicals
Using everyday products can sometimes expose us to harmful chemicals that might affect our circulation. For example, Bisphenol A (BPA) in plastic containers and canned foods, phthalates in fragrances and lotions, and triclosan in antibacterial soaps and toothpaste can mess with how our blood vessels work. It’s good to be aware of these chemicals. Try to choose products with safer ingredients to keep our circulatory system healthier.
Suggestions To Ensure Healthy Circulation
Here are suggestions to ensure healthy circulation. For a detailed guide you can check out this blog by Yuvaap: How to Improve Blood Circulation
1. Regular Exercise:
Engage in activities like yoga and gym workouts to promote blood flow and keep your heart and blood vessels in good shape.
2. Meditation:
Practice meditation to reduce stress levels. Stress can negatively impact circulation, and meditation helps relax the mind and improve overall well-being.
3. Healthy Diet:
Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. These foods support a healthy circulatory system.
4. Organic Living:
Consider an organic lifestyle by choosing organic foods and products. This reduces exposure to harmful chemicals that can potentially affect circulation.
Incorporating these practices into your daily routine can contribute to better circulation and overall cardiovascular health.
Conclusion
In summary, poor circulation is caused by factors like a lack of physical activity, exposure to harmful chemicals, and certain health conditions. It’s crucial to be aware of these causes of poor circulation to make healthier lifestyle choices.
If you notice symptoms or have concerns about your circulation, consider making positive changes in your daily habits. And, if needed, consult with a healthcare professional for advice tailored to your situation. Taking small steps can make a big difference in improving your circulation and overall health.
