Recommended Diet for Venous Insufficiency
What Is Chronic Venous Insufficiency?
Chronic venous insufficiency is a common clinical problem in the US. An estimated 20% of American adults have some type of varicose veins.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency happens when the valves of veins don't function properly. Vein walls help blood flow from the legs back to the heart. When the malfunction occurs, it causes blood to pool, which can lead to spider veins and varicose veins as a result.
Chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins appear to be related quite a lot to the unhealthy Western eating style high in fat and salt. Evidence suggests that adjusting your diet can reduce the chances of venous disorders.
Symptoms of Vein Diseases
Leg Veins (Spider Vein and Varicose Veins)
Legs Swell
Dark Spot
Leg Ulcers
Leg Aching
Cramping
Restless Leg Syndrome
Healthy Diet for Chronic Venous Insufficiency
There’s a common saying “you are what you eat” so eating healthy can definitely help prevent the development of vein diseases. Below are ways you can implement a healthy venous insufficiency diet.
Drink More Water
60% of our bodies are composed of water. It’s essential to our internal organs and it does aid the health of our veins. Water helps flush out waste products and ease symptoms of venous insufficiency.
High-Fiber Diet
Women need 25 grams of fiber whilst men need 38 grams of fiber daily. However, many Americans are consuming only about 15 grams of fiber every day. The high consumption of dairy products, starches, red meat and low consumption of fiber results in constipation which is a physical condition that places extra pressure on veins. Varicose veins are often worsened by being overweight. Dietary fiber aids in maintaining weight and losing weight. Another way where dietary fiber helps prevent venous insufficiency is by preventing constipation as it puts a strain on our veins. Consuming these high-fiber foods will help relieve constipation and reduce the chances of venous insufficiency:
Avocado: contains important minerals that can help prevent varicose veins. Avocado has vitamin E which supports preventing blood clots, and vitamin C which is anti-inflammatory and food for our skin health.
Leafy greens
Broccoli
Brown rice
Air-popped popcorn
Oatmeal
Lentils
Barley
Chia seeds: help improve heart health and support digestive functions. It prevents bloating and increased pressure on the abdomen and legs.
More Potassium Intake
Potassium intake can prevent the development of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Potassium-rich foods include:
Fruits (Bananas, watermelon, honeydew, and cantaloupe)
Dried fruits (Prunes, dates, and raisins)
Potatoes and sweet potatoes
Cooked spinach and broccoli
Green, leafy vegetables
Mushrooms
Peas
Eggplants
Pumpkins
Peas
Orange, tomato, prune, and grapefruit juices
Fishes (Cod, tuna, trout)
Beans and legumes
Nuts
Add Flavonoids
Flavonoid-rich food strengthens the blood vessels in the body. It’s noticeable by the bright and vibrant color. Flowering and fruit-bearing plants are those rich in flavonoids. These foods include:
Tea (green tea, black tea, oolong tea)
Red and green peppers
Spinach
Broccoli
Brussels sprouts
Apples
Citrus fruits (lemon, lime and orange)
Berries
Peaches
Vinegar
Soybeans and tofu
Cucumbers
Eating flavonoid-rich food can prevent the development of chronic venous insufficiency while also easing leg discomfort and edema.
Avoid Eating Fatty and Salty Foods
Obesity is one of the great causes of vein disease. Eating non-fat food and exercising regularly will help one to maintain a healthy weight range. Salty foods result in greater water retention, which puts excessive pressure on your varicose veins.
Consuming salty foods like bread, pizza, cold cuts, etc., can cause water retention, which consequently hinders blood flow. Cutting back on sodium can help you solve this problem. You can easily avoid excessive salt by checking the nutritional facts of any packaged food.
Watch Out For BPA
Bisphenol (BPA) is a chemical found in hard plastics that is known to mimic the effects of estrogen. Estrogen can increase the risk of spider veins. It’s important to choose BPA-free plastic containers. Avoid using plastic dishes when warming food in the microwave and use glass storage containers when storing food in the refrigerator.
Seek Treatment for Existing Vein Conditions
If you’re currently experiencing the symptoms of venous insufficiency such as spider veins, varicose veins, leg aching & heaviness, leg ulcers, eczema, etc., book a free screening with our vein specialists. We offer personalized treatment plans based on your condition and unique needs.
While eating healthy is important for vein health, letting existing vein problems untreated can lead to more health serious conditions.
All of our 10 vein clinics are specialized in treating vein diseases. We use the most advanced technology such as EVLA, sclerotherapy, Varithena, ambulatory phlebectomy.
Book a FREE Screening with our vein clinic to learn about your risk factors, lifestyle changes, vein health and payment options.