The Simple Secret to Better Blood Flow

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Feeling tired, foggy, or noticing a tingle in your hands and feet? The cause might be simpler than you think. Your body's circulation is a vital, non-stop process, and supporting it could be as easy as reaching for a glass of water.

Your circulatory system is like the body's internal delivery service, constantly working to power, protect, and repair every part of you. As cardiologist Brett A. Sealove, M.D.,chair of cardiology at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, explains, "Without adequate blood flow, dysfunction of the organ system occurs." It's the system that keeps everything running smoothly, and when it’s not working well, you might feel tired, have trouble concentrating, or notice tingling in your hands and feet.

So, what is the single most important thing you can do each day to support this vital system? The answer is surprisingly simple: stay hydrated.

The Power of Water for Your Heart

Your blood is made up of about 90 percent water. When you don't drink enough, the total volume of blood in your body literally decreases. This forces your heart to pump harder to circulate less blood, meaning your vital organs might not receive the optimal amount of oxygen and nutrients they need to function correctly. Dr. Sealove calls water "the fuel for your bloodstream and for the engine of the body, namely the heart."

You don't have to be severely dehydrated to feel the effects. Even a mild one to two percent drop in your body's hydration level can reduce the amount of blood your heart pumps by a significant 10 percent each minute. This can lead to brain fog, poor concentration, and mood changes, which makes sense when you consider that the brain itself is about 75 percent water. Fatigue, headaches, and dry skin are also common signs that you need to drink more.

Are You Drinking Enough?

The good news is that you have direct control over your hydration. How can you tell if you're drinking enough? Look for these simple signs: you're visiting the bathroom regularly throughout the day, your urine is light-colored or clear, and you're drinking before you feel thirsty. Thirst is actually a signal that you're already on your way to being dehydrated. If you find plain water unappealing, try adding a squeeze of lemon, opting for sparkling water, or infusing your glass with fresh mint or other herbs to make it more enjoyable.

More Than Just Water

While staying hydrated is a crucial daily habit, it's one piece of the puzzle. To fully support your circulatory health, Dr. Sealove also recommends incorporating other healthy habits into your lifestyle. Regular exercise is key, as it helps your blood vessels work more efficiently. A nutritious, balanced diet provides the building blocks for healthy blood vessels. Finally, managing stress and avoiding tobacco are critical for protecting the delicate lining of your blood vessels, which is essential for good circulation.

Read more to learn how to keep your body circulating properly or find a screening location near you.

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