You've probably heard from your grandmother or older people that putting your legs up helps improve circulation. In fact, the "old" wisdom is well-founded. According to Alexandre Soeiro, cardiologist at BP - The Beneficência Portuguesa Hospital of São Paulo, the habit of elevating the legs has some benefits. Below, learn more and the ideal time to perform the practice.

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Why you should put your legs up every day

Some people, especially women, suffer with swelling in the legs. According to Soeiro, fluid retention is more common at the end of the day, the causes of which vary greatly. "At first, aging causes swelling in the lower limbs, something natural that requires more care. Thus, putting the legs up for about 20 minutes can favor the return of blood flow toother parts of the body and prevent the appearance of varicose veins and spider veins", explains the doctor.

In addition, the habit of resting the legs upwards can relieve limb fatigue, provide relaxation of the body and the nervous system. Finally, the resting posture is able to aid the digestive process. After all, blood flows out of the legs toward other limbs, starting with the abdomen. Thus, the greater concentration of flow in this area can improve digestion.

Can everyone benefit?

In Soeiro's evaluation, putting your legs up in the air has advantages for everyone. "However, those who notice fluid retention the most can feel the effect of the habit, especially if they do it at the end of the day, when their legs are more tired," he points out.

On the other hand, the specialist warns that it is important to pay attention to the swelling of legs and feet: "Besides the natural causes, such as aging and predisposition, fluid retention can be a sign of cardiovascular and kidney diseases, especially if the edema is abnormal and persistent, which does not stop even when putting the legs up in the air or resting", he comments.

Tips for improving circulation and reducing leg swelling

Those who have fluid retention know how uncomfortable the condition can be. However, some simple changes in routine can improve the situation. For example:

• Drink plenty of water: Drinking liquids keeps the circulation active and eliminates toxins from the body.
• Do exercises: Movement is an ally to good health and the cardiovascular system. Do sessions to strengthen the lower limbs, including the calves, which help pump blood to the heart.
• Change your position: If you work for a long time standing or sitting, take breaks to move your body and change your posture. This small gesture makes all the difference in activating the circulation.
• Go to the doctor: check-ups are essential to discover diseases and changes that may be influencing the circulation. seek an angiologist or cardiologist to evaluate your health.

Source: Alexandre Soeiro, cardiologist at BP - The Beneficência Portuguesa Hospital of São Paulo.