Varicose veins on the legs are a global problem, especially for the fairer sex.Many drugs are aimed at combating this pathology in the form of tablets, creams and ointments, as well as special compression tights and elastic bandages.
However, scientists have been able to prove that the right diet for varicose veins in the legs can significantly improve well-being and alleviate the symptoms of the disease.To do this, it is enough to give up unhealthy foods and fill your diet with a well-composed dietary menu.
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are called swollen veins due to poor blood circulation and stagnation.The veins swell, are clearly visible on the surface of the skin and take on a bluish hue.
Gradually, nodule formations appear, valve flaps are destroyed or completely closed, whichdisrupts natural blood flow.Varicose veins are often accompanied by unsightly spider veins and bulging veins.
According to statistics, every fourth inhabitant of the planet suffers from this pathology.The main causes of varicose veins are:
- genetic predisposition;
- dysfunction of the endocrine system;
- regular stress, nervous disorders;
- Circulatory disorders due to pathological formation (thrombus, tumor).
Varicose veins are very often an “occupational disease”.those who, due to their profession, are forced to be on their feet for long periods of time (e.g. salespeople, flight attendants, waiters) or, on the contrary, workers who spend their working hours sitting (mainly office workers).
List of approved products for varicose veins
Healthy foods for varicose veins are very diverse, so a diet based exclusively on approved foods will not cause any discomfort.
So, the list of approved products for varicose veins on the legs is as follows:
- Seafood;
- lean meat;
- all fiber-rich foods;
- Vegetables, fruits, dried fruits (it is recommended to pay special attention to cherries, raspberries, kiwis, currants and citrus fruits);
- nuts;
- Honey;
- legumes;
- Wheat;
- Onions and garlic (improve blood clotting and prevent the formation of blood clots);
- Spices (ginger, thyme, curry and turmeric, in addition to their amazing taste, actively contribute to improving blood circulation and general blood condition).
Regardless, the level of fluid consumption must be taken into account.If you have varicose veins, it is recommended to drink plenty of water.Plain water can be replaced with green or herbal tea, freshly squeezed juices and rose hips.
Salads can and should be seasoned with olive oil;it has a positive effect on blood composition.
What not to eat if you have varicose veins
It's time to find out what not to do if you have varicose veins.You must pay close attention to this list and exclude these products completely, even if there are particularly popular ones among them.
Prohibited products include:
- fatty meat and fish;
- all smoked products;
- spicy and salty;
- marinades;
- Sugar;
- Salt;
- Confectionery;
- Bake;
- canned food.
Important information for coffee lovers!Coffee and varicose veins absolutely do not mix!
Preparing rich meat broths and drinking black tea are also harmful for varicose veins.
Can you drink alcohol if you have varicose veins?
One of the most important questions for many is whether it is possible to drink alcoholic beverages with varicose veins.Fans of strong drinks are convinced that alcohol is only beneficial, as it helps to dilate blood vessels and improve blood circulation.
However, it should be noted that vasodilation when alcohol enters the bloodstream represents only the first stage.After some time, the second stage occurs - vasoconstriction!
In varicose veins, damaged, thickened, dilated and tortuous veins begin to expand even further after exposure to alcohol.Varicose veins and the vessel wall are also negatively affected.
Ultimately, even a small dose of alcohol can cause blood vessels to burst and internal bleeding.If the surgical intervention is not carried out in a timely manner, death is possible.
However, doctors were able to determine a dose of strong alcohol that was safe for health.For women it is 15 grams, for men 30 grams is acceptable.Is it worth risking your own health and checking whether such a miniature dose of alcohol is actually safe?
As for beer and varicose veins on your legs.Although beer has a lower alcohol content than vodka or cognac, you should not abuse it.If you indulge in an intoxicating drink, you can significantly exceed all permissible limits and harm your health.
In the case of diseases such as varicose veins, it is strongly recommended that you completely avoid alcoholic or low-alcohol drinks for the duration of the treatment!
Diet rules for varicose veins
It is worth remembering that it is necessary not only to eat healthy food, but also to do it correctly.Strict adherence to simple ruleswill help you get the most benefit from your diet:
- Breakfast had to be hearty and nutritious!
- You need to eat in small portions, but 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 leads to a dilution of the gastric juice.You can quench your thirst 30-40 minutes before meals and an hour after meals.
- Don't eat late at night, before going to bed!It is recommended to stop eating at least 3 hours before bedtime.
Diet menu options for varicose veins
A diet for varicose veins of the lower extremities normalizes blood flow, cleanses the body of toxins and slags that impair the functioning of the circulatory system, and also reduces the load on damaged veins.
The table showsmultiple nutritional optionswith varicose veins.
| Diet #1 | Start your morning with porridge and vegetable salad. For a light snack – green tea and a handful of raisins. For lunch - light soup with chicken fillet and vegetable stew. In the evening you can enjoy a seafood salad. For dinner, fruit salad and low-fat yogurt. |
| Diet #2 | For breakfast - herbal tea, a slice of black bread with a piece of hard cheese and a slice of tomato. During the day, satisfy your small hunger with low-fat natural yogurt with added fruit. Lunch – mashed potatoes and steamed fish. In the evening you can eat a portion of vegetable salad. Drink a glass of freshly squeezed juice before bed. |
| Diet number 3 | Start the day with cottage cheese with the addition of dried fruits and raisins. Enjoy fruit during the day. For lunch - wheat porridge and steamed meatballs. If you feel slightly hungry, drink a glass of tomato juice or eat some crispbreads. For dinner - chicken breast (boiled or stewed), vegetable stew. |
The menu options presented can be alternated.For maximum therapeutic effect, it is recommended to consult a phlebologist before starting a diet!In addition, consultation with a doctor is necessary to prevent undesirable effects of the diet.
Since every diet is in some way a burden on the body, a radical change in diet can lead to a deterioration in general well-being.In addition, there may be contraindications due to individual health conditions.
Diploma
Food for varicose veins does not require high professionalism in cooking or significant financial costs.However, adherence to a simple and tasty diet menu not only helps to reduce the manifestations of varicose veins by restoring normal blood circulation, but also has a positive effect on the body as a whole.