Raynaud’s phenomenon is a condition where the blood vessels, particularly in the fingers and toes, constrict more than they do in people without the condition. Other affected areas can be the lips, nose and earlobes. Exposure to cold weather and stress tends to bring on a Raynaud’s episode. This consists of skin color in affected areas changing from white to blue to red, tingling, numbness and pain. Not enough is known about the causes of Raynaud’s to blame nutritional deficiencies, but nutritional supplements might help.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Getting 1,500 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids, two to three times a day, might reduce Raynaud’s symptoms, notes University of Maryland Medical Center. Before starting any supplement program, discuss your intentions with your doctor. High doses of fish oil supplements, for example, can increase the risk of bleeding. You can get omega-3 fatty acids in supplement form and from certain foods. Cold-water fish, such as salmon, halibut, tuna and mackerel are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids. You can also get omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseeds, plant oils, nut oils, walnuts, soybeans, kale and tofu.
Other Supplements
Some people experience relief from Raynaud’s phenomenon by taking 3 to 6 grams of evening primrose oil per day, by taking a form of vitamin B-3 called inositol hexaniacinate or by taking 200 milligrams of magnesium per day, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Evening primrose oil might help the blood vessels from narrowing, but it can increase your risk of bleeding. More research is needed to deem evening primrose oil effective. Inositol hexanicinate might reduce Raynaud’s attacks, but this treatment can be dangerous, so if you take it, you must be under your doctor's supervision. No scientific studies show that magnesium works, but some doctors suggest taking it to see.
Herbal Treatment
Ginkgo biloba is one of the more common herbal treatments; ginkgo helps circulatory disorders. A 1993 study published in the German-language “Fortschritte der Medizin” journal found that one injection of ginkgo biloba had a positive effect on patients, significantly increasing circulation. The recommended dose of ginkgo is 120 to 160 milligrams a day, but because gingko can increase risk of bleeding, ask your doctor whether you can use it.
Lessen Attacks
Good circulation is a key to preventing Reynaud’s attacks. Cigarette smoke and caffeine constrict blood vessels; so to lesson Reynaud’s attacks, quit smoking and avoid caffeine. Exposure to secondhand smoke can also increase the risk of an attack. Exercise increases circulation, so a regular exercise program can help this condition. Learning to deal with stress or how to avoid stress can also help prevent Raynaud’s attacks.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Raynaud's Phenomenon
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- MayoClinic.com; Raynaud's Disease; November 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Ginkgo Biloba
- "Fortschritte der Medizin"; Hemorheologic Effects of Ginkgo Biloba Extract EGb 761; P. Koltringer, et al.; April 1993
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