The science of grounding: Could it help with Raynaud’s?

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Raynaud’s affects many people—up to 20.1% of women and 13.5% of men. It often shows up in early adulthood and can make life uncomfortable, especially when dealing with the cold.

Since there’s no cure, many people always look for safe ways to manage the symptoms. Could earthing sheets for better blood circulation be the answer for Raynaud’s?

What is Raynaud’s?

Raynaud’s is a condition where your fingers and toes change color, usually turning white or blue, when you’re cold or stressed.

This happens because the blood flow to these areas is restricted. A lot of people might have Raynaud’s and not even realize it!

What Is Grounding?

Grounding, also known as earthing, is all about connecting your body directly to the earth. You can do this by simply walking barefoot and letting your feet touch the ground.

The idea is that the earth has a natural electric charge, and when our bodies absorb it, it might have some positive effects on our health.

While this used to be a regular part of life in traditional settings, it’s not as easy to do in today’s modern world.

That’s why researchers have come up with clever products that allow you to experience the benefits of grounding without having to kick off your shoes and go “tough grass” literally. 

How Does Grounding Work?

Grounding works by connecting your body to the earth’s natural electric charge. The earth has a constant flow of free electrons, and when your body comes into contact with it, these electrons can help neutralize free radicals in your system.

Free radicals are unstable molecules that cause inflammation, which can lead to health problems. Grounding, which absorbs the earth’s electrons, can help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow.

This is why grounding is being considered a potential remedy for conditions like Raynaud’s, where poor circulation is a major concern.

The Link Between Grounding and Blood Circulation

Raynaud’s is caused by poor blood circulation. The blood vessels in the fingers and toes tighten up, making it harder for blood to flow, which leads to those cold, numb extremities.

Grounding helps by reducing inflammation, which can scar blood vessels and make circulation even worse. By cutting down on inflammation, grounding gives your blood vessels a better chance to stay open and improve blood flow.

It also thins the blood, reducing viscosity and making it easier for blood to move smoothly through the body. With better circulation, Raynaud’s flare-ups can become less frequent and less severe.

So, could earthing sheets for better blood circulation help with Raynauds? 

Here’s what research has to say.

Research Supporting Grounding Benefits For Raynaud’s 

Though grounding is still seen as an alternative therapy, the research backing its benefits is growing. Studies have shown that grounding helps reduce inflammation in the body.

One study from 2015 in the Journal of Inflammation Research found that grounding reduces pain and alters levels of neutrophils and lymphocytes—immune cells linked to inflammation.

Since chronic inflammation can mess with circulation, it might trigger or worsen Raynaud’s.

Another small study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that grounding significantly lowers blood viscosity—basically, how thick and sticky your blood is.

Grounding increases the surface charge on red blood cells, reducing clumping and making blood flow more easily. This could be a game changer for people with Raynaud’s, where poor circulation is the main issue.

More recent research suggests that grounding may relieve stress and anxiety, which are known triggers for Raynaud’s flare-ups.

While more research is needed to fully understand grounding’s long-term effects, the early findings are promising for those looking for natural ways to improve circulation and manage Raynaud’s.

Can Earthing Sheets Help With Raynaud’s?

Earthing sheets could offer relief for people with Raynaud’s by helping to improve blood circulation while they sleep.

These sheets are made with conductive fibers that allow your body to absorb the earth’s natural charge, which may reduce inflammation and support better blood flow.

While more research is needed, many users have reported improved comfort and circulation after using earthing sheets regularly.

Additional Ways to Manage Raynaud’s

While grounding may help, taking a well-rounded approach to managing Raynaud’s is important.

• Regular exercise boosts blood flow and keeps your blood vessels healthy.
• Stay warm by wearing gloves and socks in cold weather, and hand warmers can help prevent flare-ups.
• Managing stress through techniques like deep breathing or meditation is key, as stress can trigger Raynaud’s episodes.
• Lastly, eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, can support better circulation.

Final Thoughts

Grounding is a simple practice that might help people dealing with circulatory issues, like Raynaud’s disease.

With studies showing it can reduce inflammation and boost blood flow, it’s definitely worth considering as part of a well-rounded approach to managing your symptoms.

For those looking to explore grounding more deeply, earthing sheets for blood circulation offer an easy and effective way to stay connected to the earth’s energy, even while you sleep.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

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Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. However, our opinions, reviews, and other editorial content are not influenced by the sponsorship and remain objective.