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What are Varicose Veins? Venal problems, such as varicose and spider veins, are caused by a failure to properly return blood to the heart--one-way valves inside the veins malfunction, and the blood backs up in veins near the surface, causing them to swell. Spider veins are thin and scrawling lines of red, blue, or purple, while varicose veins are larger and ropier. They are commonly blue in colour but can be purple or flesh-coloured. Over half of America's women will eventually experience some type of venal problem, and some of the risk factors are beyond control--such as age, sex, and genetics--but there are plenty of ways to keep veins healthier, longer. Leg maintenance should start with diet. Fibre All venal problems, including haemorrhoids, benefit from higher levels of fibre. Fibre-rich foods include whole grain breads, dark green and leafy vegetables, bran cereals, oatmeal, beans, berries, potatoes and apples with their skins, and bananas. Drink plenty of water to keep the digestive system smooth. Each of the foods mentioned also offers loads of vitamins. For vein health, pay special attention to vitamins A, B, C, E, and zinc. Zinc aids healing and helps to regulate levels of vitamin E in the blood; it can be found in nuts, peas, oats, and whole grains. Vitamin A Carrots Spinach Milk Red bell peppers Eggs Yams Mangoes Cantaloupe Vitamin B Chicken breast Whole grains Beans Most fish, including tuna Molasses Bananas Potatoes Turkey Vitamin C Citrus fruits Broccoli Red berries (strawberries, etc.) Tomato Kiwi All bell peppers Spinach Cantaloupe Cauliflower Vitamin D Sunlight Egg yolks Sardines Tuna Milk Salmon Swiss cheese Mackerel Vitamin E Spinach Nuts Avocados Whole grains Tomato Broccoli Bits and Pieces Several spices common to any American kitchen are powerhouses in relation to health benefits. First and foremost is garlic; it is a natural antibiotic, an antioxidant, it aids the cardiovascular system, and recent studies show it may help to lower cholesterol. For those who do not like garlic, it also comes in pill form. Onion is considered garlic's "little brother"--it offers the same health benefits, but to a lesser degree. Other benevolent spices include ginger, cayenne, oregano, cinnamon, and sage. Foods to Avoid or Moderate Limit intake of salt, sugar, cheese, and red meats, and try to eliminate alcohol and fried/processed/refined foods. Fats and carbohydrates have their place--consume them in moderation, but do not remove them from the diet completely.
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