Poor blood circulation can leave you with tingly hands and feet -- and a whole lot more. If limited oxygen is getting to your brain, you can end up distracted, dizzy, unable to concentrate and, in severe cases, with a stroke. In addition to carrying oxygen to your organs and cells, the blood brings nutrients and takes away carbon dioxide and waste. You can enhance your circulation in a number of natural ways.
Exercise
Regular exercise is a major way to enhance your circulation. In addition to getting your heart pumping, exercise comes with benefits that include toned muscles, decreased risk of some chronic diseases and weight maintenance or loss. Regular physical activity also helps you sleep better, put you in a better mental state and improve your sex life. Exercise can also reduce stress, which is another factor in poor circulation.
Diet
Your diet plays a part in your circulation, and certain foods, vitamins, minerals and seasonings can get your blood going. Garlic, ginger and cayenne pepper are circulation boosters, as are nuts, pumpkin seeds, watermelon and oranges. Vitamin B6, inositol and cholin enhance your blood flow, and niacin, also known as vitamin B3, opens up blood vessels.
Habits
Some of your habits can be hindering your circulation. A big one is smoking, which constricts blood vessels and decreases blood flow. Caffeine does the same thing, especially in large quantities. Staying outdoors in cold weather or hanging around a cold home or office can also make your blood vessels contract and further hinder your blood flow.
Quick Fixes
Sometimes blood flow is poor enough in your extremities that you can start to feel tingly in your hands and feet, especially if you suffer from the circulation-hindering Renaud's disease. A few quick fixes work to get your blood flowing again. Warm up the affected area by moving into warmer surroundings, putting your hands under your armpits or holding the area under warm water. Wiggling your toes and fingers helps, as does making large windmill circles with your arms.
