Does everyone in the family have asthma or does it just seem like it? —Is it just a coincidence or a family curse that makes all the men’s toes do that? —Or why does Cousin Lon have to go to the sanitarium each full moon?
You know, just a few questions for general knowledge, a little piece of mind, or, well, maybe you should ask the question that you really came in to ask: If grandma, mom, Aunt Fanny and my older sister have varicose veins, will I have them as well??
Good question. And smart question too. If you suspect that you may have a predisposition or tendency that will affect your health, the best thing for it is foreknowledge and even perhaps a little plan to either mitigate or avoid it altogether gives you a gold star on that astral calendar.
Yes, it is true that varicose veins run in the family (My apologies on that horrible pun), but you may be able to meet the challenge head on and diminish, reduce, or even avoid it.
Why don’t we just have a look at some of the things that can be done to prevent Varicose Veins?
EXERCISE: Hopefully this is something you already are doing. Moving your legs, as in walking, running, playing tennis, etc. encourages healthy blood circulation. Keeping a healthy exercise regimen will do you no world of good in your general health, but also it will be of invaluable help when it comes to this next preventative measure (gasp!)
WATCH YOUR WEIGHT AND YOUR DIET: Yes, I said it, it had to be said.
Losing excess weight takes that unnecessary pressure off of your veins. Watching what you eat will help you keep that weight off. What you eat is also very important; make it a low-salt, high fiber diet. Low salt will prevent water retention; high fiber will prevent constipation, both enemies of good health.
ELEVATE YOUR LEGS: To improve your circulation. Elevating your legs above the level of your heart a few times a day will help you feel more rested and may also reduce any pesky monthly swelling around the ankles. You could rest your legs on an ottoman or chair, or lay down with your legs resting on a few pillows.
AVOID LONG PERIODS OF SITTING OR STANDING: We know, fat chance with your job…but try to shift your position frequently to encourage your blood flow. Even a little is better than nothing, and, oh yeah…Try to move around every fifteen to thirty minutes.
DON’T SIT WITH CROSSED LEGS: This position creates pressure points and can aggravate circulation problems.
WATCH WHAT YOU ARE WEARING: Yes, you heard me. Avoid high heels. Wearing low heels work your calf and other leg muscles to your leg’s benefit. Don’t wear tight, restrictive clothing around waist, leg and groin, it’s a circulation killer. Tight panty girdle legs and boots are a definite no-no.
So, with mom’s info and our advice, we hope you are a varicose-free vixen!