❓ What Causes Poor Blood Flow & Circulation (2024)

"YES, I Want Healthy Blood Flow"

Today in 2024  I got a question is from Mrs. Wilson and she asks,

“What really causes poor circulation?”

What’s important to know is that poor circulation isn’t a “condition” itself. It’s the result of OTHER health issues. Poor blood flow and circulation are one of the primary causes of heart problems.

This is because it can lead to

  • Blood pressure problems
  • Hardening and narrowing of your arteries
  • Cholesterol and plaque build-up

The good news is that this can be reversed and avoided naturally, without prescription medications, crazy diets, or exercise. And I’ll reveal to you how in a minute…

Because this is exactly the problem my dad has had for many years. In fact, he had a stroke a few years ago and why I’m writing this article…

To help you avoid the mistakes, pain, and suffering that we had to go through. But let’s first talk about…

Warning Signs

Some of what “warning signs” that you may have circulation problems include2

  • Frequent pain and cramping in your legs
  • Tingling or numbness in your hands and/or feet
  • Tired, aching, or weak legs and feet
  • Slow-healing wounds
  • Thickened toenails
  • Varicose and “spider” veins
  • Cold hands

Causes of Poor Blood Flow

There are several different causes of poor circulation1, but here are the top 5:

Peripheral artery disease

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can lead to poor circulation in your legs and it generally affects people over the age of 50.

circulation

PAD is a circulatory condition that causes the narrowing of your blood vessels and arteries.

This eventually decreases blood flow to your extremities and can result in pain… but more importantly can cause heart problems.

Blood clots

Blood clots block the flow of blood, either partially or entirely.

poor blood flow

They can develop almost anywhere in your body… but a blood clot that develops in your arms or legs can lead to circulation problems.

Varicose veins

Varicose veins are enlarged veins caused by valve failure. They’re most often found on your legs.

These damaged veins can’t move blood as efficiently as other veins, so poor circulation can become a problem.

Your genes largely determine whether or not you’ll develop varicose veins. The secondary is a change in your hormones due to aging.

This is why women are more likely to develop them, especially after menopause… As are people who are overweight or obese.

Blood Sugar Problems

Blood sugar problems also cause poor circulation throughout your body.

People with advanced blood sugar problems may have difficulty detecting the signs of poor circulation.

This is because diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage caused by prolonged exposure to high blood sugar3) … can cause reduced sensation in your extremities
and feel similar to poor circulation.

Obesity

Of course, carrying around extra pounds puts a burden on your body.

If you’re overweight, sitting or standing for hours, will eventually lead to circulation problems.

Being overweight also puts you at an increased risk for many other causes of poor circulation… including blood sugar problems, varicose veins, and blood vessel problems.

Summary

What’s important to remember about poor blood flow and circulation, is that it’s a result of OTHER health conditions…. And if left untreated, can lead to heart problems.

Genetics aside, the change in your hormones due to aging is a major cause of poor blood flow. As is being overweight… can typically cause numerous health problems as you may already know …blood sugar problems are one of them, which further decreases circulation.

  1. http://www.healthline.com/health/poor-circulation-symptoms-causes
  2. http://www.footsmart.com/health-resource-center/leg/circulation
  3. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-neuropathy/basics/causes/con-20033336
Your FREE Customized Health Guide