Response from Irene McCabe Naturopathic Nutritionist: In the 21st century we tend to live such sedentary lifestyles. Many of us go from working all day in desk jobs, to the car, then to the couch which in itself does not help our circulation. Making a conscious effort to exercise or just staying active in general can support your circulation but your diet is just as important. A diet rich in blood vessel supporting nutrients and a general nutritionally balanced diet can help do your circulation many favours.

Inadequate circulation covers a broad range of conditions, including cold hands and feet chilblains, Raynauds, leg ulcers, restless legs, etc. Many circulatory problems arise either from damage to a blood vessel or from the narrowing of a blood vessel (usually caused by fatty deposits). Some medical conditions such as diabetes can also result in circulatory problems.

Each blood vessel wall contains a layer of muscle that needs to be able to contract and dilate according to its needs. In order to relax (dilate) this muscle needs sufficient levels of magnesium and co-enzyme Q10 preferably in the more active ubiquinol form.

Other helpful supplements include anthocyanidines, such as grape seed, bilberry pine bark extract, vitamin C, for blood vessel health. Fish oils containing EPA and DHA help inflammation in blood vessels and my favourite herbs include Ginkgo Biloba or Hawthorn extract. A healthy and hydrating diet that includes plenty of fresh vegetables is recommended, as well as moderate levels of gentle exercise.

Response from Nikki Biddiss, Medical Herbalist: As the weather has turned colder, cold hands and feet are common problem and the best advice is to wrap up warm: wear gloves even on milder days, and thick socks.

Try to avoid carrying heavy bags for long periods of time when outside as this can restrict circulation in the hands. Moving the hands and feet regularly will aid circulation so get up and walk about if your feet are cold and try squeezing a tennis ball in your hand to increase movement.

There are a number of herbs which are traditionally associated with aiding circulation including ginger and turmeric so try herbal teas or add these spices to your food in the colder months. If you are taking other medication, consult with a herbalist before taking herbs.

For some, the restriction in blood supply to the hands can cause fingers to go white then blue then red as the blood supply returns. This is called Raynaud’s disease or syndrome and it can also affect ears, noses and lips and is often associated with numbness, pain and pins and needles. Raynaud’s is often triggered by cold weather but may also be triggered by stress and anxiety. Follow the advice above to improve circulation and look at relaxation techniques to ease stress. In some cases Raynaud’s occurs as a side effect of an existing autoimmune condition.

Consult your health practitioner before following any advice if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have underlying health issues or are on any other medication.

Nikki Biddiss is a Medical Herbalist, Aromatherapy Massage Therapist and Stress and Wellbeing Coach. To book a consultation For Nikki call Napier’s, 61 Cresswell Street, Glasgow on 0141 339 5859.

Irene McCabe is a Naturopathic Nutritionist and has been an Independent Nutritional Researcher for over 30 years. Irene also practices Allergy and Intolerance Testing and Advanced Clinical Hypnotherapy and is the former owner of Napier’s in Glasgow’s West End. To book a consultation For Irene call The Harvest Clinic, 201 West George Street, Glasgow on 0141 333 0878 Email responsenatural@gmail.com