10 vein friendly tips for improved circulation in the legs

1. "Vein-friendly" types of sports are walking, running, cycling and swimming. Going for walks, rope-climbing, climbing stairs and keeping fit also help to keep your legs fit.
2. If you must sit for long periods of time, a footstool under your desk will take the weight off the thighs and the back of the knees, causing circulation to improve. Get used to doing the 'toe to hell seesaw' several times a day: stand on your toes and after a few seconds slowly lower the heels and repeat.
3. Treading water can also improve circulation.
4. Raise your legs as often as possible and do not cross your legs when sitting down.
5. Do not wear tight shoes and, in the daytime, avoid high-heeled shoes if possible. Also, clothing should not be restrictive: try to avoid tight pants and belts.
6. Watch your weight! Every extra pound puts additional pressure on the circulation.
7. Nicotine is the Number One toxin as far as the vascular system is concerned. Women smokers using hormonal contraception have a higher risk of having thrombosis.
8. Your diet should be rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals. For cold meals use a good quality oil with unsaturated fatty acids and for hot meal use olive oil. Add bitter vegetables and salads such as artichokes, chicory and endives to your diet--your liver and circulatory system will thank you for it. And don't forget to drink lots of water.
9. Avoid extreme heat and taking hot baths. Visits to the sauna are possible if you keep your legs constantly raised while you are in the sweat room. Make sure to take subsequant cold showers.
10. Before going to bed rinse your feet, calves and the back of your legs with cold water. This strengthens the veins and promotes sleep. During the night the blood flow will be relieved if the legs are raised higher than the heart.