Varicose veins are one of the primary vein diseases affecting women. They appear most frequently in the legs, and their presence is very noticeable. Obese people are more prone to varicose veins due to the additional pressure and weight on the legs. Thus, losing weight can help you mitigate the development and appearance of varicose veins. In this blog, you will find information about varicose veins, and we will give you tips on losing weight and reducing the symptoms associated with vein disease.
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are deformed veins that protrude from the skin. Their appearance is bulging, twisted, blue, and reddish. These veins change shape because blood pools in them, deforming their walls. This deformation may be due to the vein valves’ malfunctioning or the vein wall’s weakening.
Varicose veins can be more than just an aesthetic problem because they often represent the beginning of other diseases. Also, they can be painful and sometimes even bleed.
Why are people with obesity more prone to varicose veins?
Obesity is a condition in which a person has excessive body weight. A greater fat accumulation is associated with an increased risk of health problems like diabetes and heart disease.
There is a relationship between the development of varicose veins and being overweight. Excess weight puts additional pressure on the legs. Varicose veins are more common in the legs and feet because of the pressure exerted by the body and the fact that blood must flow against gravity. Body weight increases the likelihood of developing vein problems such as venous insufficiency and varicose veins.
How can I reduce my body weight?
1) Exercise. Staying active helps the body use up stored fat. Also, losing weight allows us to improve our cardiovascular health.
2) Eat a balanced diet. Incorporate low-fat, low-processed foods into your diet and increase your intake of fruits, grains, and vegetables. In combination with exercise, it helps to reduce body weight.
3) Stay hydrated. Water helps keep the digestive system active. It also helps the body to maintain satiety, avoiding unnecessary food consumption.
What foods help reduce the pain caused by varicose veins?
Some foods can alleviate the symptoms caused by varicose veins. Some of these are:
1) Ginger. Ginger has anti-inflammatory compounds that help mitigate the pain and inflammation of the veins. You can take it as tea (cut thin slices and add hot water) or as a dietary supplement.
2) Pineapple. Pineapple contains a substance called “bromelain” that reduces the risk of blood clots.
3) Citrus fruits, especially guava, because of their high vitamin C and fiber content. Vitamin C increases capillary flexibility, decreasing swelling and pain. Also, you can include vitamin C as an effervescent supplement.
4) Blue-colored fruits. These foods contain an anti-inflammatory pigment called “anthocyanin.” This compound promotes blood circulation and can prevent the appearance of more varicose veins. Some fruits in which you can find anthocyanins are figs, blueberries, and plums.
5) Consume red fruits. These compounds contain pigments called flavonoids. This substance helps protect the walls of the veins. Also, flavonoids help reduce cholesterol, preventing the formation of plaques that block blood flow.
It is crucial that before you take dietary supplements, you consult a naturopathic doctor. This specialist will be able to evaluate your condition and recommend the right supplement and dosage to take to reduce the symptoms of varicose veins.
Also, if you have varicose veins, you must visit a vein doctor who can diagnose your condition and recommend the appropriate treatment. If you have not yet seen a vein specialist, you can start your search on the Internet. Include in your search the place where you are located so that the search engine will find clinics in your area. For example, search for “vein clinic near me” or enter your location, such as “Phoenix vein clinic.”
What foods should I avoid?
If you want to reduce the symptoms that cause varicose veins, avoid the following:
1) Salt consumption. An excess of salt causes fluid retention. This worsens the pain and swelling of varicose veins. Avoid eating fast foods, canned, pickled, instant, and sausages, for their high sodium content.
2) Consume saturated fats. Foods of animal origin (except fish) increase cholesterol levels. Excess cholesterol causes the formation of plaques that obstruct blood flow, making the person more prone to form blood clots.
3) Avoid excessive consumption of coffee, chocolate, and spicy foods. These foods cause the veins to contract and generate more pain.
Conclusion
If you have varicose veins and are overweight, see a specialist to help you reach your ideal weight. Lifestyle changes, such as exercising and eating a balanced diet, can help you achieve your goals. If you are overweight and concerned about developing varicose veins, talk to your doctor for recommendations on reducing your risk.
