Diet And Varicose Veins

In contrast to the Western world, varicose veins are rarely seen in parts of the world where high fibre and whole unrefined foods are consumed. A high fibre diet also prevents constipation and straining during a bowel movement which is thought to put increased pressure on the leg veins.

Although not all doctors agree that low fibre diets high in refined foods are a causative factor in varicose veins, it is much healthier to avoid such a diet and emphasize fresh fruit, vegetables, whole grains and legumes in your diet.

Symptoms Of Varicose Veins

The commonest symptoms are aching, swelling, heaviness, cramps, or itching in the legs. Women may also be bothered by the ugly appearance of swollen, twisted veins or surface spider vines. The aching is usually described as a dull, heavy bursting sensation, particularly after prolonged periods of standing, and before the periods. Symptoms tend to be worse toward the end of the day and are relieved by elevating the legs. Swelling is usually confined to the ankles and feet.

Symptoms of post-phlebitis syndrome are usually more severe. Itching, and skin changes including dermatitis and dark coloration, as well as ankle ulcers may occur in long-standing conditions of this type. Swelling of the legs also tends to be more extensive.

Vitamins And Varicose Veins

The Canadian researchers, Drs. Evan and Wilfred Shute, reported that varicose veins improve on Vitamin-E in doses of 400 to 800 IU a day. Please note that if you have high blood pressure, you should reduce the dosage to 100 IU a day.

Rutin (found in buckwheat) and bioflavonoids (the white material in orange and grapefruit rinds) may help strengthen the veins in dosages of 500 to 1,000mg per day. These supplements can be found in any good health food store. It is also important to combine the above supplements with at least 1,000mg or more of Vitamin-C, as well a good mega B complex vitamin containing 50mg of all the B vitamins. In addition at least 10,000 units of vitamin-A and 25 to 50mg of zinc should be taken daily.

Vitamin-E oil and vitamin-A ointment may also be applied to the veins directly.

Self-help For Varicose Veins

Water therapy may be useful to stimulate circulation and relieve aching. Alternating hot and cold towels on the legs, always ending with cold, may reduce swelling and discomfort. Cold running water on the legs for one minute at a time can also be useful. This cold treatment should be repeated five or six times at a session.

Lemon oil has a tonic effect on the veins. You can add six drops to your bath and rub three drops of lemon mixed with 1/4 cup of almond oil on the affected areas every day.

Witch hazel is one of the oldest remedies for varicose veins. You could apply compresses made by soaking cloths or towels in distilled witch hazel (which can be found in any drug store) and take a glass of water with two or three drops of the extract at each meal.

You can also apply apple cider vinegar to the swollen veins morning and night, allowing the vinegar to dry on the skin.

Another old remedy is to use the leaves of Savoy cabbage after you have softened them and flattened them with a bottle or rolling pin. You then place the leaves flat on the veins and hold them in place overnight with bandages.

Hot castor oil packs can also be applied at night for pain and swelling relief. They are highly effective.