Almost everyone occasionally experiences cold feet or numbness in their toes and fingers.

If this happens every day, you need help. It signals that your blood circulation is poor, which might result in kidney issues, varicose vein problems, and other diseases.

Bright Side prepared for you a variety of foods you can add to your daily diet and easy actions you can take to improve your circulation. Which one of these do you already do?

7. Get a pet.

Owning a pet, especially a dog, reduces the risk of heart disease. Forming a special bond with your pet lowers your heart rate when you are around them and helps you manage your stress. Besides, owning a dog increases your chances of getting outside and walking. Cardiovascular exercises — such as walking — improve the function of your heart and blood vessels.

6. Choose wine over beer.

A clinical trial conducted in 2015 confirmed that drinking wine could improve your heart’s health. Compared to other alcohol, wine gives you more benefits because it contains antioxidants and other plant compounds. But having it in moderation is the key: one drink for women, and not more than 2 a day for men.

5. Eat spicy food.

Cayenne pepper and red pepper expand blood vessels and increase the blood flow. They help your cardiovascular system to function better and keep blood pressure normal. They also warm your hands and feet (having cold hands or feet means poor blood flow).

Tip: If cayenne pepper is too spicy for you, add more onion and garlic to your diet. Garlic relaxes your blood vessels and increases the level of hydrogen sulfide, which, in turn, improves blood circulation. Onion has a high level of antioxidants, which prevents the formation of blood clots.

4. Wear the right clothes.

Doctors suggest not wearing tight clothing for long periods of time. Tight pants or skinny jeans hamper circulation and can facilitate the development of varicose veins. Lightly fitted or slightly loose garments allow blood to circulate normally throughout your body.

3. Add foods rich in folic acid.

One of the most important reasons to consume enough foods rich in folic acid is cellular growth and regeneration. Folic acid is engaged in the creation of red blood cells and the prevention of anemia. Not having enough folic acid will affect blood clotting.

Sources of folic acid:

• Dark leafy greens (spinach, turnip greens, lettuce)
• Broccoli and avocado
• Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits), papayas, bananas, strawberries
• Beans, peas, and lentils
• Seeds and nuts (sunflower seeds, almonds, walnuts)
• Cauliflower, beets, corn, and carrots

2. Elevate your feet.

Putting your feet up above the level of your heart improves your circulation at once as it takes the pressure off the veins and legs. It also helps you relax. Elevating your legs reduces the stress and pressure on your blood vessels and veins.

Tip: Move your toes, and circle your elevated feet. Keep it up for 20 minutes repeatedly during the day, and your blood circulation will increase.

1. Get a massage.

A good massage increases local circulation as it stimulates blood flow in the soft tissues. Several studies have shown that massage positively affects your peripheral vascular function. The firm but gentle movements should be aimed toward the heart to promote lymph and venous blood flow.

Tip: Use almond, coconut, or olive oils. If you can, enjoy a massage a couple of times a week. For self-massage, you can use a foam roller. Just place it on the floor, press a sore muscle against it, and roll.

How often do you experience cold feet or numbness in your fingers and toes? What do you do to get rid of these sensations? Share in the comments!

Source: brightside.me
“If You Have High Blood Pressure, Strokes or Varicose Veins, Start Doing These 7 Things”