Good circulation is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients throughout your body. Understanding how your circulatory system works can help you make lifestyle choices that support cardiovascular health.
How Circulation Works
According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), your circulatory system consists of your heart, blood vessels, and blood. This system:
- Delivers oxygen and nutrients to every cell
- Removes carbon dioxide and waste products
- Transports hormones and immune cells
- Helps regulate body temperature
Signs of Poor Circulation
The Mayo Clinic notes that poor circulation may present as:
- Cold hands and feet
- Numbness or tingling
- Swelling in lower extremities
- Fatigue
- Slow healing wounds
Supporting Healthy Circulation
The American Heart Association recommends:
- At least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly
- Strength training at least twice per week
- Reducing sedentary time
- Maintaining a healthy weight
The Role of Warm Water
Research published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology (PubMed) has examined the effects of warm water immersion on blood flow, finding that heat application can temporarily increase peripheral blood flow.
Lifestyle Factors
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies key factors affecting cardiovascular health:
- Smoking status
- Diet quality
- Physical activity level
- Blood pressure management
- Cholesterol levels
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