What are POTS Savers and why do they make a huge difference?
POTS Savers are what I call the things that have been a game changer for improving my POTS Symptoms. POTS effects people differently so there are many things you can try to help. These POTS Savers are my ace up my sleeve for living with POTS. They have helped me greatly at managing my symptoms. Here is a list of my top 5 POTS Savers that make a HUGE difference in my life. I hope they help you too!
Check out this page on my blog to find other helpful POTS Savers!
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LMNT Electrolyte Packets- POTS Saver Difference Maker #1!
One of the ways to improve your symptoms is to increase your salt intake. This is because your body’s ability to retain liquid and stay hydrated is directly connected to electrolytes. Electrolytes, like salt, help deliver water to your body’s cells. So, Increasing your salt will also improve your ability to stay hydrated!
Also, if you suffer from POTS, you generally have lower and poor levels of blood flow and circulation in your body. This means that blood begins to pool in the lower parts of your body and generally stays there upon standing. That is what causes your heart rate to spike, light headedness, and dizziness. Increasing your salt intake will also help increase the total amount of blood flow in your body to help limit pooling from happening.
LMNT not only taste great, but are also loaded with electrolytes like salt and potassium! One packet contains 1000mg of sodium, 200mg of potassium, 60mg of magnesium, and NO artificial flavors or sweeteners. That is why it tops the list for my Top 5 POTS Savers!
Here’s a great video that explains how LMNT was started and why salt is actually good for you!
LMNT even has a post on their blog on how their packets have helped those with POTS improve. I cannot speak highly enough about this product and how much it has helped me. So, stop what you’re doing now and get yours today!
Shop LMNT Electrolyte Packets Here
Compression Stockings: POTS Saver #2
I’m not gonna lie, I HATE wearing compression stockings, but they do help!
POTS causes your blood to pool in the lower parts of your body. Unfortunately, this can lead to skin discoloration on your feet or legs and cause swelling and dizziness. Sometimes blood pooling can even cause you to pass out! So, it is really important to do anything to help this from happening.
Compression stockings are designed to give a gradual compression that pushes your blood up your legs to prevent pooling. They also help your muscles recover faster after a workout.
Here are some tips on which ones to get!
- Make sure they are Medical Grade Compression of at least 20-30 mmHg.
- Waist high compression stockings work best (although they are a pain to put on!)
- Open toe compression stockings are the easiest to put on
- Use thigh or knee high compression stockings during warmer temperatures
- If you are a male, then make sure you get some like these made for men (trust me, the male anatomy require a specific fit…)
Compression Stocking Brands I Recommend
Cooling Neck Towel: Small but Mighty POTS Saver That Makes A Huge Difference #3
Heat is a MAJOR trigger for POTS symptoms so it is important to do what you can to stay cool. Having cooling neck towels like these with you is an easy way to help with this! I bring mine everywhere. This has been the fastest and easiest way to stay cool for me.
There are different types you can get but I mostly use the ones that are activated by water. I have found those to be the easiest to carry with you. They can also provide cooling relief without the need for refrigeration. Also, they are designed to dry quickly so it doesn’t feel like you are carrying around a wet towel with you everywhere you go!
The Levine Protocol: POTS Saver #4
Another great POTS Saver is the Levine Protocol. The Levine Protocol is an exercise therapy program made by a cardiologist named, Benjamin Levine. This daily workout routine uses a combination of targeted heart rate cardio and strength training to help you build up your tolerance level to physical activity.
If you haven’t read my post about The Levine Protocol, than be sure to click on this link to find out more information about how it can help!
If you were like me at the beginning, then the thought of exercise may seem impossible! However, it can happen and it does help! The Levine Protocol starts with short amounts of exercise and gradually increases as you move forward. This helps build up your tolerance level to physical activity one step…well actually you sit through most of it…at a time! Just be sure to speak with your doctor before you start!
Also, be sure to read this post on how to exercise with the Levine Protocol Plan to learn everything you need to know to complete the therapy plan!
Heart Rate Monitor- My Last of the Top 5 POTS Savers That Makes A Huge Difference!
POTS causes your heart rate to spike and do some crazy stuff! This is why It is very important to monitor your heart rate and pay attention to what symptoms you feel throughout the day. Also, you will not be able to do the Levine Protocol without having a way to monitor your heart.
There are many types of heart rate monitors you can get so this is totally up to you! Here are a few that I suggest:
- Apple Watch– kind of a no brainer if you use Apple products.
- Fitbit – any model
- Garmin Smart Watch– any model
- Tickr Fit Heart Rate Monitor
Heart Monitors are the final item to wrap up the list of my Top 5 POTS Savers that make A huge difference. However, they are one of the most important! Don’t try to get through this without having a way to monitor your heart!
Closing Thoughts: My Top 5 POTS Savers That Make A Huge Difference
I hope this list of my top 5 POTS Savers that make a huge difference will help you with your battle with POTS! As always, speak with your doctor first before trying anything new.
Also, remember that POTS effects everyone differently. This means that what works for someone else may not work for you. Just remember to keep trying and don’t give up! You will eventually find your own POTS Savers that help!
Always be sure to try your best to find what causes your symptom triggers and begin to eliminate those from your life. Here is a great post that can help you find your POTS triggers and teach how to remove them!
Finally, let me know what works for you and be sure to check back for more POTS Savers!