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Many people say that the human foot is the "second heart" of the body, not only because it carries the weight of our whole body, but also because the health of the foot can reflect our overall health.
Especially for female friends, the health of your feet can even predict the length of your life. So, what are the foot features that can serve as a sign of health and longevity? Today, let's take a look.
Healthy foot skin
The health of the skin on the feet is a direct reflection of a person's blood circulation and metabolic function. If the skin on the feet is smooth and elastic, it means that the blood circulation is good and the metabolism is normal. Conversely, if the skin on your feet is dry, chapped or ulcerated, it could be a sign of diabetes or poor circulation.
Scientific basis
The condition of the skin on the feet reflects the blood circulation and metabolism in the body. G. T. Mark and A. C. Lyons' study in New Zealand found that healthy foot skin was associated with better metabolic function. Maintaining the health of the skin on your feet is essential for overall health and longevity.
Precautions
To maintain the health of the skin on your feet, it is advisable to use a moisturizer regularly, especially during the dry season. Pay attention to cleaning and care, and avoid wearing shoes that are not breathable for long periods of time.
The color and shape of the toenails
Healthy toenails should be pink, flat and smooth in shape. If your toenails are yellow, thickened, or unusually shaped, it could be a sign of infection, circulation problems, or malnutrition.
Scientific basis
S. Melov et al. in the United States pointed out that the health status of nails can be used as a reference for judging nutritional status and immunity. Abnormal changes in the toenails may indicate certain health problems in the body.
Precautions
Trim your toenails regularly to keep them clean and dry. Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight to prevent your nails from being compressed and deformed.
Plantar thickness and health
The thickness of the skin on the soles of the feet can reflect the overall health. Having too thick a foot can be a sign of obesity or metabolic problems, while being too thin can indicate malnutrition or chronic disease.
Scientific basis
H. Litwin and S. Shiovitz-Ezra's study in the United States found that plantar thickness is strongly correlated with overall health and physical activity levels. Proper plantar thickness can help reduce the impact of exercise and protect foot health.
Precautions
Maintain a healthy diet and exercise to help maintain the proper thickness of the skin on the soles of your feet. Avoid standing or walking for long periods of time to prevent excessive wear and tear on the soles of your feet.
Edema of the feet
Edema of the feet can be a sign of heart, kidney, or liver problems. Persistent edema requires prompt investigation to rule out serious disease.
Scientific basis
E. Gagliardi and F. Gagliardi Piccinini's study in Italy has shown that foot edema is significantly associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease. If you notice frequent edema in the feet, you should pay attention to it and seek medical attention promptly.
Precautions
Pay attention to the salt intake in your diet, maintain a moderate amount of exercise, and avoid a sedentary lifestyle. You can elevate your legs when you sleep at night to help reduce edema.
Foot temperature and circulatory health
Changes in the temperature of the feet can reflect the health of blood circulation. Cold feet can be a sign of vascular problems, while hot feet can be related to inflammation or infection.
Scientific basis
C. L. Estes et al. found a direct correlation between foot temperature and circulatory problems. Keeping your feet warm can help promote blood circulation and prevent related health problems.
Precautions
Keep your feet warm in winter and avoid prolonged exposure to the cold. Massaging your feet regularly helps to increase blood circulation.
Conclusions and Recommendations
By looking at these features of our feet, we can better understand our own health. The five characteristics of foot skin, toenails, plantar thickness, edema, and temperature can all serve as important indicators of health and longevity.
When you notice an abnormality in your feet, you should take timely measures to maintain good foot hygiene habits and have regular health check-ups to ensure that your body is in the best condition.
Health advice
1. Check your feet regularly: Check your feet daily, especially for sores, wounds or signs of infection.
2. Maintain foot hygiene: Wash your feet daily with warm water, keep them dry, and wear comfortable, breathable footwear and socks.
3. Control blood sugar: Follow your doctor's advice, maintain a balance of diet, exercise, and medications, and monitor your blood sugar levels regularly.
4. Regular physical exams: Have regular comprehensive health check-ups, including kidney function, heart health, and neurological exams.
Through these measures, complications of diabetes can be effectively prevented and managed, and a good quality of life can be maintained. Remember, the health of your feet can serve as your "blood glucose meter" to reflect your blood sugar control in a timely manner and help you better manage your diabetes.
bibliography
1. Shahbazian, H., Yazdanpanah, L., Latifi, S.M. "Prevalence of diabetes and impaired fasting glucose in the adult population of Khuzestan Province, Iran." Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice, 2013.
2. Tirtha Man Shrestha, Ramesh P. Aacharya, Rabina Shrestha, Madhav KC. "Knowledge and Practice of Diabetic Foot Care Among Nepalese Diabetes Patients." Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research & Reviews, 2017.
3. Morris, A.D., McAlpine, R., Steinke, D., Boyle, D.I., Ebrahim, A.R., Vasudev, N. "Diabetes and lower-limb amputations in the community. A retrospective cohort study." Diabetes Care, 1998.
Finally, what experiences and insights would you like to share? Feel free to leave a message in the comment area!