Lifestyle Changes
Making changes to your lifestyle to lower your risk factors is the first step in treating PAD. Among the adjustments you might make to manage your condition are:
- Put an end to your cigarette use. Inquire about smoking cessation programmes with your doctor.
- Consume a well-balanced diet that is high in fiber and low in sodium, fat, and cholesterol. Just 30% of your daily calories should come from fat. You should consume no more than 7% of your total calories as saturated fat. Avoid trans-fats, especially those found in items made from vegetable oils that have been partially or fully hydrogenated.
- Start a consistent fitness regimen, like walking. PAD can be treated by walking. Regular walkers can extend the distance they can cover before their legs start to suffer.
- Manage other health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.
- Avoid stress. Exercise, yoga and meditation may help with this.
- Practice good foot and skin care to prevent infection and reduce the risk of complications.