Alcohol, foods high in sugar content, and foods that are high in salt can be the culprits that worsen your varicose vein symptoms. It may seem odd that a food can amplify your symptoms but simply maintaining a healthy diet can relieve some of your pain without medical treatment. Certain food groups should be avoided in order to alleviate your varicose veins.
Alcohol
Alcohol consumption does not cause varicose veins however it can worsen your symptoms. Alcohol should be avoided in order to help your varicose vein condition as it can increase your heart rate. This causes more stress on the legs due to the influx of blood rushing into your veins. In people with vein disease, the valves in the legs are usually unable to match the elevated speed at which the blood needs to be pumped through the body after consuming alcohol. This makes the veins work harder, and leads to more swelling in the legs.
Sugary Foods
Processed foods that contain high amounts of sugar tend to release a large amount of insulin into the bloodstream upon consumption. This can result in elevated blood sugar levels which ultimately weakens your veins. Natural sugar sources such as fruits tend to have a slower release time and contain lots of fibre to keep you healthy.
Salty Foods
When eating foods with a high sodium content bodily blood volume tends to increase. Eating excess salt causes fluid retention which elevates your blood pressure. This causes an increase of stress on the veins, which leads to excess swelling. Opting for low-salt alternatives can alleviate some of the stress on your legs.
Fried Foods
Fried foods are a quick and easy meal idea but they come with low nutritional benefits and harmful effects to your legs. Fried foods tend to have a high fat content and a low fibre content making them hard on your digestive tract. This can cause excess pressure to be placed on your lower extremities. Overall, once in a while it is okay to indulge; however you should think twice before regularly eating fried foods, and opt for healthier alternatives when possible.
Contact us!
At Canada Vein Clinics we specialize in the treatment of varicose veins. We offer numerous treatments for this condition and help to find the best treatment for you. Book a consultation to find out more information! Give us a call today at 1-888-876-8346 , or email us at askdoctor@canadaveinclinics.ca.
