How to Increase Blood Flow for Diabetics

Poor blood flow plays a key factor in the 73,000 amputations that occur annually for people with diabetes. Improving your circulation and blood flow will not only help you feel better and more energized, but it can also prevent the possibility of amputation.

Keep reading to learn the best ways for diabetics to increase circulation and blood flow.

HOW TO INCREASE BLOOD FLOW FOR DIABETICS

When most people think about managing their diabetes, the first thought is typically controlling blood sugar. Circulation, however, should not be forgotten, as your blood needs to continue pumping smoothly to keep your legs and feet healthy.

In order to increase your circulation and blood flow, diabetics should consider:

• Regular Exercise - Keeping your blood pumping with regular exercise is an excellent way to increase your blood circulation. Try engaging in some form of cardiovascular exercise such as walking, swimming, hiking or biking for 30 minutes, five days a week. It’s important that when doing this exercise you’re moving your legs, feet, ankles and toes.

• Wear non-constricting socks - Tight socks can cut off circulation to your ankles and feet, negatively impacting your blood flow. Dr. Segal’s Diabetic Socks have extra-cushioning and are non-binding, making them the best option for diabetics. Dr. Segal’s Diabetic Socks can be used as neuropathy socks for those with diminished sensation in their feet, for anyone with wide ankles and calves, or for those who experience swelling in their feet and ankles. The extra-wide top band is designed to maximize blood flow and the extra cushioning decreases the risk of foot injury.

• Quit smoking - Smoking leads to hardening of your arteries which in turn, decreases blood circulation. In addition to all the other benefits of quitting smoking, it can improve how well your blood reaches your feet and legs and circulates back to your heart.

• Manage your cholesterol - Like smoking, high cholesterol can lead to hardening and narrowing of your arteries, limiting circulation. Speak with your physician about your optimal cholesterol numbers and how to best manage your cholesterol.

• Manage your stress - Stress can increase your heart rate, blood pressure and blood sugar levels. By managing your stress through activities like exercise and meditation, you can lower your heart rate and blood pressure, and increase blood flow to more areas of your body such as your legs and feet.

DIABETIC SOCKS BY DR. SEGAL’S

Dr. Segal’s has created Diabetic Socks that are stylish, comfortable and are effective for diabetic and neuropathy patients.

Dr. Segal’s Diabetic Sock features include:

• A non-binding top band - the extremely stretchy top band allows for a comfortable fit that doesn’t bunch up and promotes circulation in the feet.

• Seamless toes - The seam on the inside of regular socks rubs on your toes throughout the day. For those with diabetes, this can result in painful chafing and blisters. The seamless toe in Dr. Segal’s Diabetic Socks work to prevent the development of rubbing and blisters.

• Antimicrobial treatment - For those with foot conditions, it’s important to ensure your feet stay clean. The antimicrobial treatment on Dr. Segal’s Diabetic Socks prevents bacterial and fungal growth to keep your feet healthy.

• Moisture wicking technology - Nobody likes to experience moisture in their socks, especially diabetics who can develop serious infections on their feet as a result. Having moisture wicking technology in Dr. Segal’s Diabetic Socks ensures your feet are kept dry to prevent infections from developing as a result of moisture.

• Cushioned footbeds - The extra padding on Dr. Segal’s Diabetic Socks help prevent injuries on your feet which could lead to complications or infections.