6 foods allied in the treatment and prevention of varicose veins –

Summer is coming and, with it, the sun and the heat, the old acquaintances of women also come: swelling, feeling of heaviness in the legs, tingling and pain. Typical discomforts of those who suffer from varicose veins, a problem that goes far beyond aesthetics.

CAUSES OF VARICES

According to the president of the Brazilian Society of Angiology and Vascular Surgery (SBACV), Bruno de Lima Navesvaricose veins are just one of the symptoms of a more complex problem: chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), one of the most prevalent diseases in the world.

Among the main risk factors for CVI are obesity, family history, inappropriate postures at work, increasing age, number of pregnancies and, mainly, sedentary lifestyle.

“We have to think that the calf is the heart of our leg, it performs the function of pumping blood to the thigh. Leg pain does not always come from illness, but from posture, such as standing or sitting for long periods. If the person has suffered an episode of thrombosis, has varicose veins or weak calf muscles, blood circulation can be impaired”, explains Bruno.

TREATMENT OF VARICES

Currently there are several options to treat the problem, whether by surgery, endovascular techniques, such as laser, or even chemical treatments, such as foam applications (sclerotherapy). But the good news this time is that the diet also contributes – and a lot – to the control of varicose veins.

A recent study, published in the Journal of the American College of Nutritionpoints out some foods that play an important role in the treatment of varicose veins:

1

Blueberry: Blackberries, also known as blueberries, have high antioxidant properties that help improve arterial health, fight inflammation, and strengthen veins. According to the researchers, they also help to improve the vascular system and the integrity of the veins. The flavonoids, present in the fruit, are anti-inflammatory, protective against blood clots, antioxidants and protectors of blood vessels. In addition, it reduces the spongy appearance of the capillaries and the risk of forming a new varicose vein.

two

Grape: The fruit has antioxidant phytonutrients, such as anthocyanins, which strengthen capillaries and also reduce the swelling of varicose veins.

3

Chia Seed or Flaxseed: Flaxseed is known for its high fiber content, which helps with digestive function, heart health, and increases pressure in the legs and abdomen. The less fiber in our diet, the greater the possibility of constipation (constipation). And it is precisely the excessive effort to evacuate that can create pressure in the veins of the lower part of the rectum, leading to the formation of varicose veins. In addition, flaxseed is rich in fatty acids and omega 3.

4

Garlic: Allium Sativa is reported by researchers as one of the top ten herbs used for ailments such as cardiovascular disorders and reduction in body weight. Additionally, a bioactive compound found in garlic called alliin (or allicin) helps prevent thrombosis.

5

Ginger: According to the study, the consumption of Zingiber officinale exerts an anti-inflammatory action that helps improve blood circulation and dissolve fibrin, a protein linked to the thickening of veins, which normally finds it difficult to be absorbed by people with varicose veins.

6

Horse Chestnut: According to the study, Horse Chestnut is rich in escin, an active ingredient of plant origin that has proven to be anti-inflammatory and may decrease vascular permeability.

“Love Your Legs” Campaign

In addition to good nutrition, the president of the SBACV points out that the recommendations for good health of the legs are the regular practice of physical activity that keeps the calf toned, maintaining the ideal weight and avoiding staying in the same position for long periods. Taking good care of the legs is also don’t abuse high heels It is wear compression stockings when necessary, such as after surgery. Also, seek medical advice in case of any prolonged discomfort and don’t get used to it.

“We want to issue a warning to everyone. However, women are more likely to have varicose veins, this is the first warning. If you have a close relative with varicose veins, it’s good to be aware and look for an angiologist”, advises Bruno de Lima Naves.

To make the population aware of prevention and the importance of medical follow-up, Servier, in partnership with SBACV, created the project “Love Your Legs” (Instagram – @amesuaspernas), which brings simple care tips for the health of the legs in a didactic way and accessible.