Varicose veins in the legs are a global problem, especially for women.A number of medications are designed to combat the condition, including tablets, creams and ointments, as well as special compression garments and elastic bandages.
However, scientists have proven that proper nutrition for varicose veins in the legs can significantly improve health and minimize symptoms of the disease.To do this, it is enough to give up unhealthy foods and enrich your diet with a well-designed diet menu.
What are varicose veins
Varicose veins are called swollen veins due to poor and stagnant blood circulation.The veins are swollen, clearly visible on the surface of the skin, and appear blue.
Gradually, nodular structures appear and the valves are destroyed or completely closed, whichDisrupts natural blood flow.Varicose veins are often accompanied by unsightly spider veins and bulging veins.
According to statistics, a quarter of the planet's inhabitants suffer from this condition.The main causes of varicose veins are:
- genetic predisposition;
- Endocrine system dysfunction;
- Frequent stress, nervous disorders;
- Circulatory disorders due to pathological formations (thrombosis, tumors).
Many times, varicose veins are an "occupational" disease.Employees who, due to professional reasons, are forced to stand for long periods of time (e.g. sales staff, flight attendants, waiters) or, conversely, employees who work in a seated position during working hours (mainly office workers).
List of products allowed for varicose veins
Healthy foods for varicose veins are very diverse, so a diet based only on permitted foods will not cause discomfort.
Therefore, the list of products approved to treat varicose veins in the legs is as follows:
- seafood;
- lean meat;
- Any fiber-rich food;
- Vegetables, fruits, dried fruits (it is recommended to pay special attention to cherries, raspberries, kiwis, currants and citrus fruits);
- nut;
- Honey;
- legumes;
- wheat;
- Onions and garlic (help improve blood clotting and prevent blood clots from forming);
- Seasonings (ginger, thyme, curry, and turmeric, in addition to their amazing flavor, actively help improve blood flow and general blood conditions).
Also of note is the level of fluid consumption.For varicose veins, it is recommended to drink more water.White water can be replaced with green or herbal tea, freshly squeezed juices and rose hips.
Salads can and should be dressed with olive oil; it has beneficial effects on blood components.
What should you not eat if you have varicose veins?
It’s time to learn what not to do with varicose veins.You need to pay close attention to this list and exclude these products completely, even if there is a particular favorite among them.
Prohibited products include:
- fatty meat and fish;
- any smoked product;
- spicy, salty;
- Marinade;
- sugar;
- Salt;
- candy;
- bake;
- Canned food.
Important information for coffee lovers!Coffee and varicose veins are absolutely incompatible!
Making thick broth and drinking black tea are also harmful to varicose veins.
Can I drink alcohol if I have varicose veins?
One of the most important questions for many people is whether it is okay to drink alcoholic beverages with varicose veins?Spirits enthusiasts believe alcohol can only be beneficial because it helps dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow.
However, it should be noted that vasodilation when alcohol enters the blood is only the first stage.After a while, the second phase occurs – vasoconstriction!
With varicose veins, damaged, thickened, dilated, and tortuous veins can begin to dilate further after exposure to alcohol.The nodules and vessel walls of varicose veins are also negatively affected.
Eventually, even small doses of alcohol can cause ruptured blood vessels and internal bleeding.Without prompt surgical intervention, death is possible.
However, doctors can determine the dose of hard alcohol that is safe for health.15 grams for women and 30 grams for men.Is it worth risking your health to check if such a small amount of alcohol is actually safe?
As for the beer and the varicose veins on my legs.Although beer has a lower alcohol content than vodka or cognac, you shouldn't abuse it.If you are drunk, you may significantly exceed all allowed limits and damage your health.
If you suffer from a condition such as varicose veins, it is highly recommended to completely avoid any alcohol or low-alcohol beverages during treatment!
Diet rules for varicose veins
It is worth considering not only eating healthy foods, but also eating them correctly.Strictly follow simple rulesWill help you get the most from your diet:
- Breakfast must be rich and nutritious!
- You need to eat food in small amounts and often!You should forget about three meals a day.From now on, you should eat 5-6 times a day.
- Don’t drink water while eating!This causes gastric juices to dilute.Thirst can be quenched 30-40 minutes before meals and 1 hour after meals.
- Don't eat before going to bed at night!It is recommended to stop eating within 3 hours before going to bed.
Diet menu options for varicose veins
A diet for varicose veins in the lower limbs can normalize blood flow, remove toxins and waste products from the body that hinder the function of the circulatory system, and reduce the load on damaged veins.
Table displaySeveral dietary optionsHave varicose veins.
| Diet N°1 | Start the day with porridge and vegetable salad. Snack - green tea and a handful of raisins. Lunch - light soup with chicken tenders and stewed vegetables. You can have seafood salad in the evening. Dinner - fruit salad and low-fat yogurt. |
| Diet No. 2 | Breakfast - herbal tea, a slice of brown bread, a piece of hard cheese and a slice of tomato. During the day, satisfy mild hunger pangs with natural low-fat yogurt with added fruit. Lunch - mashed potatoes and steamed fish. Have a vegetable salad in the evening. Drink a glass of freshly squeezed juice before going to bed. |
| Diet N°3 | Start your day with cottage cheese, dried fruits and raisins. Enjoy fruit during the day. Lunch - wheat porridge and steamed meatballs. If you're feeling peckish, drink a glass of tomato juice or eat a few crispbreads. Dinner - chicken breast (boiled or steamed), stewed vegetables. |
The menu options presented can be alternated.For maximum therapeutic benefit, it is recommended to consult a phlebologist before starting a diet!In addition, in order to prevent adverse effects of the diet, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
Since any diet stresses the body in some way, a complete change in your diet may lead to a worsening of your overall health.Additionally, there may be contraindications due to personal health conditions.
in conclusion
Foods to treat varicose veins do not require highly specialized cooking or large financial costs.However, following a simple and delicious dietary menu not only helps to reduce the appearance of varicose veins by restoring normal blood flow, but also has a beneficial effect on the entire body.