Eating can be challenging during the holidays if you have vein disease. Between the family get-togethers and dinner parties, you may discover too many unhealthy foods on the menu. However, we want you to know there are healthy food choices for vein disease that can still get you into the holiday spirit.
Why is Eating Healthy Important with Vein Disease?
Healthy food choices can help prevent weight gain, and may help promote better circulation. Being overweight is a risk factor for developing vein disease and can make symptoms worse because excess weight puts strain on your veins. Making healthy eating habits can also help prevent high blood pressure and diabetes, which are other risk factors for vein disease. Foods high in cholesterol or sugar can increase swelling, cause fatigue, and lead to inflammation.
If you have been diagnosed with vein disease, it is important to get treatment for yourself. While eating healthy is an essential part of a care plan, it can’t completely cure venous insufficiency or eliminate varicose veins. USA Vein Clinics provides a range of minimally invasive treatments for varicose veins, spider veins, and other problematic venous conditions.
Monitor Sodium Intake
Foods high in sodium can make you retain water, which puts extra stress on your veins. Ham and other meats are often loaded with salt, but you can reduce the amount used when cooking. Instead of mashed potatoes, consider a baked sweet potato or other vegetables that contain less salt with your holiday diet for healthy veins.
Include More Vitamin C
Vitamin C is important for developing elastin and collagen, two tissues to help build strong veins. Oranges and other citrus fruits in salads, casseroles with broccoli and Brussels sprouts, or strawberries for dessert are examples of foods high in Vitamin C to add to your diet around the holidays. These foods also are healthy snack options, so you don’t overeat later.
Get Enough Fiber
Eating a lot of rich foods can throw your digestive system off its routine. You can add high-fiber foods to your daily menu, such as oatmeal for breakfast, apples, and carrots for snacks, and barley, peas, or berries in recipes to keep your digestive system regular.
Drink More Water
Staying adequately hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your body all year long. It’s especially helpful during the holidays when tables are filled with tempting treats that contain a lot of sugar and sodium, which cause dehydration when eaten in large amounts. Drink an eight-ounce glass before you sit down to a meal, and try to indulge in soda, hot cocoa, coffee, and alcohol in moderation.
Visit USA Vein Clinics for Treatment
Maintaining a healthy diet isn’t enough to avoid or treat vein disease. While it can be part of your overall treatment plan, eating healthy doesn’t replace seeking treatment from a vein specialist. We offer a range of minimally invasive treatment options at USA Vein Clinics, most of which can be done in 30 minutes or less, so you don’t have to take a lot of time away from your holidays. Discover all the benefits of our treatment options by scheduling a consultation online or giving us a call at 888.768.3467.
