Fiber for Varicose Veins

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Varicose veins are veins that have become tortuous and enlarged. They frequently appear as bluish or purplish swollen veins beneath the surface of the skin. They commonly occur in the lower legs but can appear anywhere on the body (when they affect the veins of the rectum they are referred to as hemorrhoids). Varicose veins occur when the valves within the vein become incompetent, allowing blood to flow backwards and causing affected veins to swell. Varicose veins result from numerous causes. Heredity plays a large role in their development. Obesity, pregnancy, menopause, abdominal straining (such as occurs with constipation), aging and injury to the affected leg may all contribute to the development of varicosities. Varicose veins are more common in women than men.

High Fiber Diet for Varicose Veins

Method

A high fiber diet will promote bowel regularity, which helps to decrease constipation and the resultant abdominal straining that may promote the development of varicose veins. In order to be considered high in fiber, foods should contain more than 5 grams of fiber per serving. Some examples of foods that are high in fiber include:

• Whole grain breads
• High fiber cereals (All Bran, Fiber One, Smart Bran)
• Cooked hot cereals (Red River, Sunny Boy)
• Apples
• Oranges
• Berries
• Dried fruits
• Beans
• Broccoli
• Spinach
• Peas

Why It Works

Fiber helps to soften stool and promotes peristalsis (muscular contraction) of the bowels. This promotes regular elimination of the bowels and prevents constipation. Avoiding constipation prevents straining at stool, which may lead to varicose vein development.

Precautions

When increasing fiber in your diet, increase dietary fiber slowly to prevent excessive gas and bloating. Eating too much fiber can also cause constipation rather than cure it. It is important to drink plenty of water along with fiber to prevent constipation. If your varicose veins are very painful, numerous or large, your physician should be consulted to rule out circulation problems, such as venous insufficiency.

More Remedies

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