Legs in the limelight

A figure fit for a miniskirt? The secret to attractive, healthy legs lies in more than a regular exercise program at the gym, it also involves proper nutrition. Certain kinds of food actually help us to get into shape and have a healthy body that is toned and full of energy. By relying on natural methods, you can improve your circulation and get rid of that sense of heaviness and tiredness in your legs, eliminating those unsightly swollen ankles that so many women are afflicted with, especially during the summer.

◆ Natural Remedies
Nature provides us with many ways to achieve shapely, healthy legs. In order to improve blood and lymphatic circulation in the lower leg and avoid water retention, it can be very helpful to use vegetable extracts like centella, butcher's broom and horse chestnut; birch, orthosiphon, dandelion, mouse ear, pineapple and spiraea. These help to reduce the toxins that our bodies produce and which tend to accumulate in the subcutaneous tissue. In order to fight women's number-one enemy, cellulite, you can use centella, butcher's broom, witch hazel and cypress. These substances promote the breakdown of fats because they contain a high proportion of iodine which, when it is absorbed by the thyroid hormones, tends to have an energizing influence, facilitating the lipolysis (dissolving) of fats in the adipose tissue.

◆ Healthy Legs Begin at The Table
What foods should you choose to have shapely, healthy legs? Tomatoes, potatoes and bananas, to start with; they are rich in potassium and help eliminate excess liquids. Blue fish contains those famous Omega 3 and 6 fats, as well as zinc, helping to keep the blood from becoming viscous while breaking down and eliminating toxins. Citrus fruits contain lots of vitamin C, and acts as an antioxidant, which fights free radicals. This means, among other things, that it helps maintain the elasticity of the veins, while protecting the blood vessels. The "black" fruits, such as blueberries, grapes and berries in general, do the same thing, even if by different means. Hot pepper contains capsicine, a resin oil with a vasodilatory action, making it very good for circulation. According to recent studies, it appears that pomegranate juice is also excellent for circulation because it helps eliminate the accumulations of cholesterol and fats that tend to build up in the arteries. The recommended amount is just 50ml a day.

What should you avoid? If you use common sense, practically nothing. However, it's a good idea to reduce consumption of alcoholic beverages and salt, which promotes water retention. And if you can't do without it, use unrefined sea salt. Sugar intake should also be restricted and the same holds for all sweets and fried foods. Chocolate, sausages, fatty meats, cream and both soft and aged cheeses should all be kept to a minimum.