A scientific study show that the polyphenols contained in dark chocolate may alleviate some of the symptoms of peripheral artery disorder (PAD). The study, conducted by faculty at Sapienza University, involved 20 participants. Half of these participants were provided 1.5 ounces of dark chocolate to eat while the other half were given milk chocolate.

After the chocolate was consumed the test subjects were instructed to walk on treadmills for a certain amount of time. As the scientists monitored the patients, they found that patients who consumed the dark chocolate had better circulation and were able to walk a little over 10% farther than those who had eaten the milk chocolate.

Poor circulation is difficult to live with. If you have poor circulation in your feet or ankles, consider calling podiatrist Dr. Carl Ingrassia, DPM of Fords Foot and Ankle Care. Dr. Ingrassia can treat your podiatric needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. It usually restricts the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development.

It can also cause:

• muscle pain
• numbness in legs
• cramps
• skin discoloration
• weakness
• slower nail & hair growth
• stiffness
• erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes and or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, or who are over 50.

If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD, and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Fords, NJ and East Brunswick, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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