Foods That Can Actually Worsen Varicose Veins

Foods That Can Actually Worsen Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are primarily caused by genetic factors outside of the patient’s realm of control. However, lifestyle habits that can be managed should be, especially if there is a family history of varicose veins.

We realize that health information has become muddled, with every ‘expert’ out there having an opinion and writing about it online, we wanted to give you some advice from a reputable source. Our staff here at the West Florida Vein Center of Safety Harbor, Florida in the Tampa Bay area wants nothing more than health for all. While we love helping our patients we know it would be ideal never to need to be a patient here at all.

When it comes to preventing varicose veins or healing the already damaged veins in your legs, two states that you want to avoid are constipation and water retention.  Either of these will add pressure to the walls of the veins. If you’ve already begun to develop a state of venous insufficiency, your veins are already fragile.

To avoid finding yourself in this situation, try to steer clear of the following varicose vein development culprits:

Processed Sugar

A diet laden with refined sugar leads to obesity and a variety of other health complications.

It also contains only trace amounts of fiber and can contribute to constipation.

Refined Grains

Fiber contributes to vein wall formation. Fiber is essential to the circulatory system because it prevents blood clot formation and constipation. While grain would usually be assumed to be good for varicose veins, the exception is grains that are refined. Reason being that they have had the majority of their fiber removed in processing. This would include refined grain items such as white rice, pasta, and anything made with white flour like bread, cookies, or rolls.

Alcohol in Excess

Drinking excessively can lead to venous disease. Alcohol tends to be both high-carb and high-sugar and leads to the release of elevated levels of insulin. High levels of insulin are problematic in that they negate the body’s ability to rid itself of excess sodium, causing water retention. Alcohol also attacks the liver’s ability to filter toxins and waste out of the blood, creating blood that is thicker, further weakening already fragile leg veins.

Salty Foods

Consuming too much sodium can cause water retention. This, in turn, results in an increase in the volume of blood attempting to move through your veins. This adds pressure and over time, can significantly weaken vein walls contributing to both varicose veins and spider veins.

The Keto Diet

A special warning to those with a family history of varicose veins or those who already have begun to develop vein issues. If you feel you must do this diet, make sure that you stay hydrated. Lack of hydration combined with a high-fat diet can cause varicose veins to form.

Avoiding the foods mentioned above is not only wise if you want to prevent varicose veins or to alleviate some of the symptoms from current varicose veins, but is also recommended for anyone who wants to avoid a variety of other illnesses and medical conditions as well. For more information on varicose vein prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, or to simply schedule a vein screening of your own, contact Dr. Zuzga of the West Florida Vein Center today by calling (727) 712-3233. www.westfloridaveincenter.com.