Varicose veins not only look unsightly, they can also be very painful, and in severe cases, sores on the legs can develop. Varicose veins are caused by weak and torn blood vessels just below the surface of the skin.
Varicose veins can be caused by a number of factors. These factors include lack of regular exercise, being overweight, a poor diet with a high percentage of processed foods and saturated fat, long periods of sitting or standing, and pregnancy.
It is also believed that varicose veins are an inherited disease. There are strong links that if other family members have varicose veins, future family members are at high risk of also suffering from this disease. If you have a family history of this condition, you can use this knowledge to take the necessary precautions to prevent or alleviate it.
Studies have been done to show that the diet you eat plays a big role in whether or not you get varicose veins. Research has found an interesting correlation between countries that eat little fat. The diet includes a high proportion of unprocessed natural organic foods and a very small proportion of people who suffer from this disease. One explanation is that the abundance of antioxidants and fiber found in fruits and vegetables help the body to maintain the health and strength of cell tissue.
Diets high in saturated fat and processed foods with little or no nutritional value have a stressful effect on cell tissue. They can tire out and inhibit the efficiency of cell growth. These types of foods are found in red meat, dairy products such as cow’s milk, cheese, sweet foods, alcohol, and caffeine.
If you feel varicose veins or if the disease occurs in your family, try to avoid this type of food. Include more fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet and exercise regularly.