Steps to improve circulation
Mayo Clinic – Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries (atherosclerosis), reducing blood flow to the limbs. Common risk factors of PAD include smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, high blood pressure, high lipids (cholesterol and/or triglycerides), diabetes, obesity, inactivity, age greater than 50, male gender, family history, genetic conditions and ethnicity.
Vitamin B3, niacin, has been shown to reduce inflammation and increase circulation. People who always have cold hands and feet may want to consider a vitamin B supplement to improve blood flow and heart health.
Mayo Clinic – Because L-arginine acts as a vasodilator, opening (dilating) blood vessels, many people take oral L-arginine to treat heart conditions and erectile dysfunction.
Omega-3 fatty acids are one of the most popular heart-healthy supplements. Studies have found that patients who consume fatty fish or fish oil a few times per week can have over a 30% decreased chance of getting heart disease. Omega-3s have been shown to decrease atherosclerosis and reduce inflammation. However, those with risk of atrial fibrillation should be cautious.
