Traditionally, the heart has been considered the body's only circulatory pump. However, recent research reveals a more complex circulatory system. Understanding these mechanisms allows us to effectively address problems like swelling, pain, and discomfort in feet and legs.
A new perspective on blood circulation
Conventional medical theory presents the heart as our circulation's sole engine. However, Stephen Hussey's book "Understanding the Heart" offers a revolutionary perspective:
The tree analogy
Consider how trees, without having a heart, pump water from their roots to their highest leaves. Research suggests that:
- The heart doesn't just pump blood - it makes it spin in a vortex
- This movement creates structured water within our circulatory system
- The heart's electrical nature generates fields that facilitate blood flow
This understanding leads us to solutions that go beyond simply "pumping harder" - we need to optimize the quality and structure of water in our blood.
Solution #1: Infrared for structured blood
Structured water dramatically improves circulation by flowing more efficiently through blood vessels. The best way to create it internally is through infrared exposure.
Effective infrared sources:
- Natural sunlight: More than 50% of solar energy is infrared
- Infrared saunas: 15-20 minute sessions
- Bonfires and fireplaces: Fire provides excellent infrared radiation
Additional Benefit: Infrared increases nitric oxide production, a natural vasodilator that improves blood flow and reduces blood pressure.
Ideal Complement: Vitamin D (from UV sun exposure) also stimulates nitric oxide production, creating a synergistic effect.
Solution #2: Natural diuretics for edema
Swelling in feet and ankles indicates fluid retention that hinders effective circulation.
Potassium: The natural diuretic par excellence
- Recommended Dose: 1000-2000mg daily additional to diet
- Mechanism: Balances sodium and optimizes kidney function
Crucial complementary strategy:
Eliminate sugars and starches (bread, pasta, cereals, cookies) from the diet. These foods:
- Promote fluid retention
- Deplete vitamin B1 (thiamine)
- Compromise vascular health
Specific Remedy for Foot Pain: Supplement with benfotiamine (advanced form of B1) if you experience pain or burning sensation in your feet.
Solution #3: Magnesium for muscle cramps
Calf and foot cramps, though often attributed to poor circulation, usually indicate magnesium deficiency.
Why blood tests are misleading:
- Only 1% of body magnesium is in blood
- 99% is inside cells
- Conventional tests don't detect cellular deficiencies
Supplementation protocol:
- Intensive Phase: 800mg daily for 2-3 weeks
- Maintenance: 400mg daily
- Optimal Form: Magnesium glycinate (better absorption without intestinal side effects)
Mechanism of Action: Magnesium controls calcium, functioning as a "natural calcium channel blocker" - similar to hypertension medications but without side effects.
Solution #4: The compression stockings mistake
Contrary to common recommendation, compression stockings can worsen circulatory problems in certain cases.
Why they can be counterproductive:
- Artificially restrict already compromised vessels
- Can inhibit natural collateral circulation
- Prevent the body's compensatory mechanisms
Alternative for Varicose Veins: Diosmin supplement, a flavonoid that strengthens vein walls and improves venous return without constriction.
Solution #5: Specific Low-Impact exercises
Incorrect exercise intensity can worsen circulatory problems. The ideal approach combines:
Exercise #1: Elevation with ankle pumping
- Lie on your back with legs elevated against the wall
- Perform ankle flexion and extension movements alternating feet
- Maintain position 5-10 minutes, 1-2 times daily
This combination leverages gravity while activating the calf "muscle pump."
Exercise #2: Seated ankle pumping
Perfect for doing during work or long trips:
- Seated with feet supported, raise and lower heels
- Make circles with ankles in both directions
- Repeat for 2-3 minutes every hour
Exercise #3: Heel-Toe rocking
This technique activates multiple muscle groups simultaneously:
-
Standing, with initial support on wall or furniture:
- Rise onto your toes
- Lower and transfer weight to heels, lifting toes
- Gently rock between both positions
-
Progress to doing it without support to improve balance
Optimal Frequency: 10 repetitions, several times a day
Additional solution: Addressing cold feet
If you experience constantly cold feet despite improving circulation, consider iodine deficiency as a potential cause.
Mechanism: Suboptimal thyroid function reduces basal metabolism and body temperature.
Remedy: Marine kelp, a concentrated natural source of iodine that supports thyroid function and improves thermogenesis.
Conclusion: Comprehensive approach for optimal circulation
Modern research allows us to understand circulation as a complex system that goes beyond simple cardiac pumping. Combining these five strategies - infrared exposure, electrolyte balance, magnesium supplementation, specific exercises, and avoiding counterproductive measures - we can transform the circulatory health of our lower extremities.
These methods not only relieve symptoms like swelling and pain but optimize circulatory function at the cellular level, improving oxygenation, nutrition, and waste elimination in legs and feet.