DMSO AND EDEMA (SWOLLEN ANKLES AND FEET)

EDEMA  - Interstatial Fluid Retension

There could be many reasons for the swelling of the lower extremities, and if persistant, should always be seen to by a medical professional in case of an undiagnosed issue.

However, it is important to understand the mechanisms involved in edema in the body.  Each cell has a little “pump” that pushes fluid in and out of the cell – this is called the sodium/potassium pump and the malfunction of these “pumps” is what cause interstatial fluid retention.

Let’s cover what is the cause of this malfunction.  Quite simply, the sugar in the blood is too high!  Sugar is connected to the protein in the blood, or haemaglobin.  When sugar connects to the protein in the blood, and it will stay there for approximately 3 months (the average lifespan of the red blood cell), it is called glycation. When you consume too much sugar and refined carbs you destroy the ability of the cell to carry nutrition and oxygen to the body. 

This glycated protein molecule now plugs up your circulation which results in a lack of blood flow.

Lots of sugar also creates a sodium retention and potassium is locked up in the sugar, and wherever the sodium goes, the water goes.

Over time this can and will affect the nerves at the bottom of the feet. Signs like numbness, tingling or burning will occur, called neuropathy.  Very common in diabetes.

Although there are 3 supplements that are vital in combatting this problem, it can only go so far! You have to address your diet and where your sugars come from.  Quite often it is not so obvious!

POTASSIUM  -  A potassium supplement should be taken daily.  You cannot possibly consume enough potassium (about 4,700 mg  per day) from your diet.  But do include berries, bananas and avos in your diet as often as possible.

MAGNESIUM  -  As in Magnesium Glycinate is an excellent supplement.  You  need approximately  420mg per day.

VITAMIN B1  -  B1 is extremely important in carbohydrate metabolism and the protection against glycation.

HOW CAN DMSO HELP WITH THIS

DMSO offers protection from circulation and oxygen deficiencies.  These mechanisms include anticoagulation, expansion of blood vessels and as a diuretic contributes to promoting perfusion and circulation as soon as the tissue fluid pressure reduces as the swelling subsides.

A diluted DMSO/water solution (70%) can be sprayed on to the affected areas a few times a day with great results. 

NOTE

The A1C blood test measures how much sugar is stuck to your blood protein.  It gives an average over a 3 month period.