VARICOSE VEINS

 

 They are very evident and uncomfortable-those rather unsightly bulging veins in the lower legs. Varicose veins are often accompanied by dull, nagging aches and pains ans a sensation of heaviness in the legs.

If they get very severe they can produce ankle swelling, leg sores or ulcers. They are produced when the vein wall is weakened, and so the valves in the veins, which are returning the blood to the heart from the tissues, stretch and can't close properly.

 

While genes are a factor for developing varicose veins, there are some steps you can take to reduce or even prevent their appearance:

 

• Eat fruits and vegetables high in Vitamin C and Bioflavonoid, found in Citrus fruits, green vegetables and berries.

•  Good circulation is essential. Do not sit cross-legged, or stand in one position for a long period of time.

•  Consider wearing support stockings.

•  Douse your legs in cold water for 2 minutes everyday, this improves circulation.

•  Make sure your digestion is reasonable and never let yourself become constipated.

Supplements for Varicose Veins

•  Vitamin E to help circulation and to make collagen.

•  Rutin, a potent bioflavonoid.

•  Coenzyme Q-10 to improve tissue oxygenation and circulation.

•  Horse chestnut to protect the vein walls against damage, and reduce swelling.