When it comes to preventing spider veins and varicose veins, we talk a lot about staying active and giving your legs the exercise they need. But as anyone who has tried to lose weight can tell you, there’s a lot more to keeping a healthy body than just working out: your diet plays a crucial role in all aspects of your health, including circulation.
Though altering your diet will never be an equal alternative to treatment at your vein clinic, there are many specific vitamins and minerals noted for their influence on good vein health. Eating foods high in these nutrients can be a big help as you work towards the prevention and treatment of your spider veins or varicose veins, but each of them can also be a healthy and delicious addition to any diet.
- Citrus fruits also contain bioflavonoids. In citrus fruits, bioflavonoids are stored in the white, fibrous membranes, so it’s important not to discard these fibers as you eat them. As in the rest of Florida, fresh and delicious citrus is plentiful in Boca Raton—find fresh grapefruit, tangerines, or oranges for a refreshing and delicious dose of the many nutrients these foods provide.
- Berries are rich in two nutrients that promote stronger blood vessels: bioflavonoids and vitamin C. Both of these nutrients work together to reinforce the vein walls and keep veins flexible, which can help you fight back against fatty plaque buildup in the arteries (atherosclerosis). To boost your intake of these nutrients, try eating more raspberries and blueberries. These can be added to foods like cereal and yogurt to add flavor and nutritional value.
- Grains are high in fiber, which is vital to proper digestion. Because constipation can contribute to restricted blood flow, it’s important to eat enough fiber to stay regular if you hope to prevent vein conditions. Many enriched cereals like bran are also loaded with copper, which promotes the production of the collagen that your blood vessels are composed of. These enriched cereals are good options for both nutrients, while you can also get plenty of fiber from other whole grains and even fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Fish can play a role in reducing your levels of LDL or “bad” cholesterol, promoting better blood flow through your veins and arteries. Fish like tuna and salmon contain omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B3, both of which can help with this purpose.
Including more of these foods can help you keep spider veins and varicose veins in Boca Raton from getting worse, but they can also add some flavor and color to your kitchen. What are some of your favorite ways to use these ingredients? Share recipes and cooking tips in the comments below!
