The importance of our blood circulation

Good circulation is essential for overall health and well-being. It ensures that oxygen and nutrients are transported to our cells and that waste products are removed. If blood circulation is not functioning optimally, problems can arise, sometimes with disastrous consequences. In this article, we take a closer look at the causes, symptoms and solutions of poor circulation.

Not only in the Netherlands, but also all over the world, problems with the so-called ‘cardiovascular system’ are common. Signs may include cold hands and feet, pale skin, fluid retention in the legs and ankles, brittle hair and nails.

Disorders such as chronic fatigue, difficulty walking and muscle cramps (sometimes not only during exertion, but also at rest) can also be a sign that the circulatory system is not functioning optimally. Related to this is the phenomenon of ‘window legs’, which makes walking difficult and painful.

Causes of poor circulation

Various factors can contribute to reduced circulatory function. Please consider:

- Too little exercise, which causes the muscles to receive less blood.

- Lifestyle: smoking leads to narrowing and damage of the blood vessels. A poor diet, such as too much saturated fat, salt and sugar, can also lead to the blockage of blood vessels. This increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

- High blood pressure: If you suffer from high blood pressure, it is aggravated because the blood vessels are damaged and blood flow is thus further reduced.

- Overweight and obesity: too much body fat can constrict blood vessels and hinder circulation.

- Age: with increasing age, certain diseases, such as atherosclerosis, deterioration of the quality of blood vessels and the risk of increased blood pressure increase.

Long-term consequences

Poor circulation can therefore have unpleasant consequences, such as pain and fatigue, but in the long term it can also lead to serious health risks. Cardiovascular diseases can even be fatal. Consider the dangers of a heart attack, cerebral infarction, TIA or stroke. In the case of very poor circulation (‘critical ischaemia’) there is even a risk of death. In short, the consequences can be serious and prevention is very important.

What can you do yourself?

It is a fact: regular physical activity is really very important, the intensity is subordinate to the frequency. It is better to do it more often and briefly, rather than once a week over a long period.

DR-HO'S has two devices that can help. The Circulation Promoter is a complete TENS and EMS system for pain relief and recovery. Daily home treatment with this device.

Read more

Placing your feet on the MotionCiser once or twice a day relaxes you wonderfully while passive movement increases mobility, stimulates blood and fluid circulation, relieves pain or restless legs and cramps, and helps with swelling and fluid retention. Read more.

If you smoke, you will stop doing your body a big favour. And pay special attention to healthy food. A balanced diet such as eating enough fruit and vegetables, fibre and protein can promote the health of you and your blood vessels and also maintain your weight. A good book to help you get started is ‘The Food Hourglass’ by physician and researcher Kris Verburgh. Highly recommended!

Finally: ensure less or no stress. Relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation are pleasant to practice and beneficial for the mind. DR-HO'S MotionCiser can also play a role here.

Always consult a doctor if you notice or observe serious symptoms of poor circulation, as professional treatment may be required.