How to Prevent Varicose Veins by:Marilyn Pokorney
According to The National Women's Health Information Center
,
as many as 60% of all American adults have some form of
varicose veins. Women, however, are more affected by 50%. By
the mid 50's, 41% of women suffer from spider or varicose
veins.
Varicose veins appear when blood collects in a vein instead
of being pumped back to the heart. Any vein may become
varicose, but the veins most commonly affected are those in
the legs and feet. That's because standing and walking
increase the pressure in the veins in your lower body.
Varicose veins develop in people who stand or sit for long
periods of time. Lack of exercise, pregnancy, being
overweight, prolonged constipation, and sitting with legs
crossed can compound the problem.
If varicose veins are not treated properly complications
such as swelling, restlessness, leg sores, itching, leg
cramps, feeling of heaviness in the legs and fatigue can
occur.
Surgical treatment is available but it's always healthier
and less expensive to prevent, rather than treat most health
problems.
Prevention for varicose veins initially begins with the
wearing of support hosiery. But a healthy diet and
lifestyle can do wonders to avoid the occurrence of varicose
veins.
Eat a balanced diet low in fat and carbohydrates and include
lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Take vitamin C. Vitamin C helps strengthen blood vessel
walls.
Keep the diet high in fiber to prevent constipation.
Avoid sugar, fried foods, junk foods, tobacco, salt,
alcohol, processed and refined foods.
Exercise daily to maintain a healthy weight. Walking,
swimming and bicycling all promote good circulation.
Do not wear tight clothes which restrict blood flow.
At least once a day sit with the legs above the heart level
for 20 minutes to relieve symptoms.
Avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time.
Avoid crossing the legs when sitting.
Avoid heavy lifting and putting any unecessary pressure on
the legs.
Herbs, such as red clover and horse chestnut, are especially
helpful in maintaining healthy strong veins.
For more information visit:
http://www.apluswriting.net/health/varicose.htmCopyright: 2005 Marilyn Pokorney
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