Is water good for circulation?
Water can benefit numerous areas of our health, including joint mobility, the appearance of the skin and even blood pressure. Another area where water can have a positive impact is circulation. This blog explains how drinking water can improve circulation, whilst also offering some tips on how to drink enough water on a day-to-day basis.
How does water help circulation?
Staying hydrated helps circulation by improving blood flow throughout the body. Warm water is particularly beneficial as it encourages the veins to expand, thus allowing more room for blood to flow. Chilled water, on the other hand, may cause the veins to close up.
If you're a sufferer of varicose veins, drinking plenty of water will improve blood flow, whilst also preventing cramp.
Blood is largely made up of water as well, so drinking plenty of water is good to keep it healthy and moving freely.
Water doesn't just have to be consumed internally, however, in order to improve circulation. Once you've had your shower, try alternating the temperature between hot and cold to stimulate circulation and improve blood flow.
If varicose veins are problematic, however, try to avoid spending lots of time in hot baths or saunas as the temperature can make symptoms of this condition more severe.
How can I increase my water intake?
It is generally recommended that we consume between 1.5 and 2 litres of plain water every day, and a little more when the temperature's warm or when exercising. This may seem like rather a lot, however, if you aren't used to glugging the plain stuff - so how can you up your intake?
Liven it up!
First off, try livening up the drink with a few herbs or fresh fruit. Cucumber, lemon, orange and mint are just a few tasty options.
Keep a bottle handy
Second of all, keep a bottle with you when you are out and about, or at work. It becomes much easier to drink enough water when you have it to hand all the time.
Today there are plenty of re-useable bottles that you can purchase at a low price, which we'd always recommend over plastic alternatives.
Give Balance Mineral Drink a try
Balance Mineral Drink is another means of topping up your water intake. This natural drink also contains helpful nutrients like magnesium and zinc which support energy levels, as well as potassium which can help to regulate fluid balance in the body.
A.Vogel Balance Electrolyte Mineral Drink with Vitamin D3, Magnesium, Zinc, Potassium and Calcium.
£22.49 (21 x 5.5g sachets) In Stock
Cut down on caffeine
It's important to note that caffeinated drinks do not count towards your overall water intake. In fact, teas and coffees can actually contribute to dehydration which means they are likely to have a detrimental effect on circulation.
So, try swapping your usual hot drink for a cup of water or, alternatively, a refreshing herbal tea. Ginger teas are a good option as this ingredient is thought to stimulate blood flow.
Looking for other drinks to boost circulation? Check out my blog 6 drinks for healthy circulation.
