Get rid of swollen legs in 5 steps

Summer brings high temperatures and we feel like cooling off. This is normal, because too much heat for too long has consequences on health, such as swelling of the legs and ankles, which especially affects women especially to pregnant women. Other vulnerable people are those who are overweight or drink little water.

But what are the causes of swollen legs and ankles? What simple habits can you incorporate into your daily routines to improve this problem?

Dilated blood vessels, cause of leg and ankle swelling

Similar to sweating, swelling is an annoying reaction of the body, but it really It is a heat adaptation mechanism. The heat dilates the blood vessels, blood circulation slows and fluid permeates into the tissues. The result: swollen feet and legs.

This is the reason for most of the cases and that is why the relief comes from stimulating the circulation in the legs.

However, there are heart and kidney problems that could cause leg swelling. If you feel very tired without explanation or notice other symptoms, it is better that you go to the doctor.

Tips to combat swollen legs

The following tips will help get the blood flowing quickly again.

1. Move more

First thing in the morning or last thing in the afternoon you can do light exercises to activate circulation, like walking or riding a bike. On the hottest days you can go swimming in the pool or on the beach.

2. Cool off with jets of water

During the day it is a good idea cool your legs in the shower for a few minutes. If you have a garden, take the opportunity to water and cool off with the hose. You can act like this: wet your legs, let them dry in the sun and wet them again.

A short cold foot bath get the same effect. It is a perfect method to lower the temperature of the whole body.

3. Raise your legs

Whenever you get a chance Lie down and put your legs higher than your head. This way the blood will flow more easily to the heart.

If you have to stand for a long time, often stand on your toes or do small bounces to stimulate circulation.

4. Eat and drink properly

It is important to drink a sufficient amount of water to maintain a good circulation rate. The most appropriate drinks are mineral waters and infusions without sugar. The latter can also have a diuretic effect if the right plants are chosen (for example, horsetail and dandelion are diuretic).

The right food can also help with swollen legs. It is important to eat several times small amounts and Include fresh fruits and vegetables in all meals as well as whole foods.

These foods They don’t overload your body like fatty foods do. They are easily digested and provide plant compounds that promote flexibility and good tone of blood vessels. In this way an extra supply of blood in the digestive system will not be needed and it can return to the blood vessels to work against the heat.

On the other hand, you must Reduce salt (sodium) intake as much as possible since it favors the entry of liquid into the cells. Keep in mind that delicatessen and convenience foods often contain hidden salt in the form of preservatives and flavor enhancers.

5. Do not wear tight shoes

If your feet and legs tend to swell in the heat, don’t wear shoes that will squeeze them and aggravate the problem. are recommended open and comfortable shoes, like sandals.

Shoes with high heels are especially inconvenient because they cause a exaggerated increase in tension in the calves It compresses the veins and hinders blood circulation.