Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (347 page)

VARICOSE VEINS

Varicose veins are weak or broken spots in surface blood vessels that most commonly occur in the rectum, anus (hemorrhoids), or legs. They develop due to the improper functioning of the tiny one-way valves located in venous walls that help to transport the circulating blood back to the heart. If the valves are not working efficiently, blood collects in localized areas, causing veins to stretch and swell. Varicose veins all too frequently form during or just after pregnancy. Besides being unattractive, they might be accompanied by a dull ache, and in more severe cases, leg sores may even develop.

CAUSES MAY INCLUDE

Prolonged standing or sitting.

Lack of exercise.

Diet low in antioxidants.

Obesity.

Pregnancy.

Heredity.

Poor circulation.

Poor nutrition and weakened digestion.

Liver weakness.

Action plan

There is much you can do to help prevent more varicose veins from developing or the ones you have from worsening. Keep a food diary and have a look at ways you can make improvements. The following foods combine to help improve healthy veins and bowel and liver function.

EAT/DRINK

Fiber and antioxidant-rich plant foods, which help to keep tissues strong.

Foods high in vitamin C and P (bioflavanoids) for healthy capillary walls. Good food sources of both vitamins (C and P are usually found together) include black currants, grapes, cherries, plums, apricots, rose hips, green peppers, tomatoes, dates, and buckwheat groats.

Sprinkle wheat germ on your cereal.