Varicose veins are a common and well-known symptom of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and other venous diseases. However, there are other, less well-known symptoms of varicose veins that can trouble you before they become visible. These symptoms include restless leg syndrome, leg cramps, rashes, and skin discoloration.
Regardless of whether you’ve experienced preliminary symptoms, there are certain dietary choices and vitamin supplements that are beneficial for those who may have a genetic predisposition toward developing varicose veins or who may be concerned about the possibility of venous disease. In general, it’s wise to follow an anti-inflammatory diet that is also high in fiber and minimizes foods like red meat, white flour, and excessive sugar – all of which are difficult to digest and can also put undue pressure on your veins.
However, there are certain vitamins and herbal supplements that have been shown to help prevent or minimize varicose veins. Here is a list of recommendations, for your reference:
- Herbal supplements: According to the Mayo Clinic, several herbs have proven helpful in combating varicose veins. You can obtain herbal supplements at your local natural food store:
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- Horse chestnut
- Butcher’s broom
- Grape
- Sweet clover
- Vitamin E: Vitamin E has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to prevent and manage chronic diseases such as stroke, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and fatty liver disease – all of which are conditions related to blood health. Vitamin E has also been directly linked to the prevention of CVD (cardiovascular diseases) since findings showed that vitamin E deficiency is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events.
- B Vitamins: According to the Mayo Clinic, Vitamin B-6 may prevent diseases of the heart and blood vessels when combined with folic acid (vitamin B-9) and vitamin B-12. Vitamin B12, in particular, is needed to form red blood cells and DNA, so it’s very beneficial for blood health.
- Vitamin K: According to a recent Edith Cowan University study, there is growing evidence suggesting that people who eat a diet rich in vitamin K have a lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease. ECU researcher Dr. Nicola Bondonno said, “Although more research is needed to fully understand the process, we believe that vitamin K works by protecting against the calcium build-up in the major arteries of the body leading to vascular calcification.”
- Vitamin C: Studies have shown that patients with chronic leg ulcers have lower levels of vitamin C in their systems than patients without leg ulcers. Low vitamin C levels have also been linked to inflammation and severe leg artery disease, an often painful condition in which blood vessels in the legs become blocked. Other general health benefits of vitamin C include bolstering immunity and reducing oxidative stress.
- Iron: Although not a vitamin, iron deficiency has been linked to chronic venous leg ulcers, so it’s a good idea to take a good B12-iron supplement to prevent your iron levels from reaching anemic levels and for general blood health. Increasing your iron levels is also known to increase your energy levels, which is necessary in order to have sufficient energy for regular exercise and beneficial for preventing varicose veins.
Taking these vitamin supplements — coupled with a healthy anti-inflammatory diet filled with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables — can help you prevent or minimize the beginnings of venous disease.