Cold Weather Strategy For New Moms
With a newborn at home and the flu epidemic on the rise, it’s important to consider the role that circulation plays in staying healthy during the cold winter months. Pregnancy and then being on your feet all day with your baby can contribute to painful varicose veins forming, due to a lack of circulation in the legs. The cold weather causes even more circulation issues because when temperatures drop, the body reduces blood flow to the extremities, as a way to keep the blood in the main arteries of the body. This may cause cold hands and feet, making flu season even more difficult for you and your newborn.
st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) }
Luis Navarro, M.D.
Dr. Luis Navarro, Director of The Vein Treatment Center in New York, NY, one of the most well-respected and established physicians in the country, has devoted his life’s work to the treatment of venous disorders (varicose and spider veins). Formally schooled at the University of Barcelona, he came to New York in 1969 where he began his surgical training at Mount Sinai Hospital. His interest in phlebology flourished and by the late 1970’s, while practicing as a general surgeon, he began to investigate and develop new approaches to treating varicose and spider veins. At the same time he became one of the first members of the American College of Phlebology, a society dedicated to the research and treatment of venous disorders.
§ GET REGULAR EXERCISE. Any type of exercise that strengthens the “second heart” – the muscles of the calf and foot – is beneficial. Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, 3 times a week.
§ WEAR GRADUATED COMPRESSION STOCKING. Compression stockings act like an added layer of muscle, aiding the performance of the “second heart” and venous circulation.
§ MONITOR HORMONE INTAKE. Birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy constrict blood vessels and can weaken vein valves and vein walls.
§ AVOID PROLONGED PERIODS OF SITTING AND STANDING. Rotate your ankles and feet whenever possible, walk for at least 10 minutes every hour, and point and flex your toes to promote leg vein circulation.
§ ELEVATE YOUR FEET. Raise your feet 6 to 12 inches above your heart whenever possible to assist circulation.
§ EAT A HIGH FIBER & LOW SALT DIET. Salt retains water and constipation puts pressure on the venous system.
§AVOID CROSSING YOUR LEGS. Leg crossing constricts veins and increases venous pressure.
These are excellent tips. Thank you to Dr. Luis Navarro for sharing this important information with us. If you are a new mom or know of a new mom, please feel free to share this information with them.
If you have any questions or inquiries regarding advertising or feature posts, please contact me directly at lindsey@michiganhomemommyworks.com.
I'm lucky that this is not a problem of mine but I'm also thankful that you have these tips to ensure that as I venture into my 30's … I have these tips to keep in mind. Thanks!